World Champs, Thun

Thun, Switzerland was the location of the World Freestyle Kayak Championships 2009. The Irish Freestyle Team has just returned from the event, unfortunately without medals, but with memories of, a fantastic competition, brilliant craic with paddlers from all over the world and of an overall amazing experience.

Adrian, Siobhan and myself were flying the flag for i-canoe. Enjoy the below pictures of the beautiful town and a great wave.

Above, Bowsie in his competition ride and below Siobhan paddling for a great 23rd place.

Irish ladies preparing to take to the water

The junior lads proved to be pros at the big air ramp. Both Corin (above) and Rory (below) threw big air screws to progress to the Big Air Ramp Final, which was held under flood lights. The two lads also enjoyed the fame of appearing on the big screen.



Adrian and Niall were paddling in the squirt competition. Below is Ad getting vertical. I hope the toes have recovered Adrian!!


Being so close to the mountains in Thun, we managed to get spin on a local creek. It was a lovely park and huck, followed by a 20 minute class 4 run. Unfortunately, with creek boats a scarce resource at the freestyle champs, i was only able to huck the falls and left the others to enjoy the rest of the river

Ad styling above, and bowsie boofing below.

The whole team enjoyed the competition and celebrated with fun nights out with the rest of the competitors. Above, Team Ireland after dinner and below Tanya celebrating her bronze medal.

Adrain, Niamh and Sinead work on their balancing act.

A big thanks goes to

Simon Hirter and his team for putting on such an amazing and enjoyable event.

ICU and freestyle committee for their help funding the Irish team an organising.

Jenny for organising stuff and managing the team

Fellow team members for the unbelievable craic that we had

And to

i-canoe, Sandiline and Jackson Kayaks for their support in providing gear.

Roll on Plattling 2011

Bowsie

ps. more pics to follow