WCA Sprint and Marathon development

The development of Sprint and Marathon paddling within Wales has been quite patchy in the past and despite some individuals’ efforts, has been a little neglected. Given the status as one of only two of the Olympic disciplines this needed addressing. The WCA has sought to remedy this situation by employing Richard Rogers as its first sprint coach.

Richard has been paddling for over 20 years but was sidetracked from paddling for a few years by rowing, where he won the World Junior Championships and also competed at the senior World Championships. He is based in Cardiff after moving back to Wales, where he grew up, from London, where he trained and competed for Richmond and Royal Canoe clubs. He is a Level 4 Inland and Sea coach and is currently working towards his Level 3 Competition Coach award (flat water).

His aims are to coach, develop and nurture athletes involved in flat water racing and produce performances at the top of national performance level. Initially the training squad will be paddling out of Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre, using the rivers Taff, Ely and Cardiff Bay.

If you wish to get involved in flat water racing, either sprint or marathon then please contact him on 07740167235 or e-mail at richardkayak666@aol.com