In its 61 years of being on our Television screens Blue Peter has entertained and inspired numerous generations of children and along the way the presenters have tried their hand at most sports and activities, including kayaking. So when Stafford and Stone Canoe Club contacted Blue Peter they jumped at the chance to come and try Canoe Slalom.
So back in the summer the Blue Peter film team payed a visit to Stone. As they arrived the river was packed with members of the club training, setting the scene and for the presenters Lindsey Russel and Richie Driss the realisation of what they would be trying sank in. Club paddlers, London 2012 Olympian Lizzie Neave and Rio 2016 Gold medal winner Joe Clarke were on hand to have a chat with Lindsey and Richie about their time paddling, the amazing experiences they have had over the years and what canoeing means to them. But just having a quick go isn’t BP’s style and so with the help of Lizzie and Joe a challenge was set.
They just had a few hours to learn and compete in a head to head slalom race on a short 8 gate course. After demonstrating what was expected of them Lizzie and Joe left Lindsey and Richie with jaws well and truly dropped at their skills and speed, they then handed over to two of the clubs junior paddlers to teach Lindsey and Richie the basics.
Now we can’t go into too much detail now, but suffice to say the training was interesting and the race itself was excellent. To find out what happened you’ll just have to tune in to the CBBC Channel on Thursday 28th November, Live at 5.30pm. Or catch up later on the iPlayer. After the filming both presenter said how much fun they had and that they would love to come and try again. We do hope that the film will inspire and encourage children to find their local club and give it a go.
