On a very foggy and rather chilly Sunday morning in March we gathered at The Grove Lock Pub for our Hydro5Kpaddle, all set up and ready to go by 10am we had a few minor adjustments to make, but we were on the water and ready at about 10 past 10.
321 and we were off, the sun had broken through the fog, and we were treated to blue skies and no wind.
Graham took the lead followed by Stuart commanding a healthy gap before Anthony and Susan.
Dave shadowed Julia on the 2.5k outbound section bathed in sunshine and just meandering along enjoying being out and on the water.
Graham seemed to be going for gold as Brendan was unable to attend this weekend and he was looking for the Rosetta whilst he could. also, his wife Jackie, and doggies Twiglet and Wilson were watching so a good show, and a win was a must.
Stuart was a close 2nd and not too far behind.
Anthony and Susan crossed the line at exactly the same time resulting in a photo finish, that produced a joint third position. although due to the length of Anthonys board he actually passed the finish line behind Susan. V A R, gives Susan the 3rd place.
Dave and Julia were still meandering back, enjoying the sunshine and time on the water and were soon joined by Susan who at this point was also basking in the sun.
Adam W made an appearance to say hello and is looking very well after almost a year’s absence from paddling.
At the end we all exited the water, clean and dried our kit, before packing away and retiring into the pub for a well-earned refreshment.
A nice chat on the terrace by the side of the Grand Union Canal finished the morning in a lovely way.
With many thanks to the marshals and to the Grove Lock Pub for accommodating us, we return here in May 2026, (Dates to be confirmed on our website).
Our next FREE Hydro Paddle is either 5 or 10K and will be from the Grand Junction Arms in Tring in April.
Results:
Graham F 40.37
Stuart L 41.26
Anthony and Susan 50.27
Julia and Dave 88.09
Our photo gallery is HERE
Write up by Dave