The Gailey Canoe Club is a racing club that has been active since the 1950s, participating in Marathon and Sprint Racing. They have a diverse membership of adults and juniors, and they welcome individuals and families of all abilities. The club is affiliated with British Canoeing and has a strong presence in New Zealand.
In terms of racing, Gailey Canoe Club engages in both Marathon and Sprint disciplines. Marathon racing includes paddlers of all ages, from 8 to 80 years old, and is primarily based on individual ability. There are special races for 8-12-year-olds, usually separated by gender, which cover a distance of approximately 2 miles. As paddlers progress in age, they compete in different divisions.
Divisions 10 to 7 have races that are 4 miles long, Divisions 6 to 3 cover a distance of 8 miles, and Divisions 2 and 1 race for 12 miles. Gailey Canoe Club competes in races throughout the Midlands and participates in the end-of-year final, which can take place anywhere in the country. These races are held on Sundays and serve as great social events for members to enjoy.
Sprint racing, on the other hand, focuses on paddling as fast as possible in a straight line over short distances. Racers are typically categorised by ability or age, with male and females typically racing separately. Distances for sprint races range from 200 metres to 5 kilometres. Currently, sprint races are mainly held at Holme Pierrepont National Watersports Centre in Nottingham.
However, the club is actively working towards organising more regional or club sprint events.
The Gailey Canoe Club has a devoted committee comprising elected officers. The current officers for 2023 are as follows: John Clive as Chairperson, Simon Eskriett as Vice Chairperson, Louise Clive as Secretary, Amy Grey as Trainee Secretary, and Louise Clive as Treasurer. The team leaders are John Clive for Marathon racing and Simon Eskriett for Sprint racing. Additionally, there are designated roles for important aspects such as welfare, publicity/fundraising, race organisation, and more.
Training sessions take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:30 pm, with participants asked to arrive 30 minutes before. On Sundays, training starts at 10:00 am, unless there is a race scheduled. The annual membership fees for the 2023/24 season are 65 for adults (18+), 30 for juniors/students (8-18 years), and 6 for non-paddling members. Families with more than three members receive a 5 discount per paddling member.
Boat storage is available at 30 per K1 or K2, with a maximum of two K1s or one K2 per fully paid member. For those who prefer casual paddling, there is an option to pay 5 per session, with the second session being free.
Gailey Canoe Club provides an excellent opportunity for individuals and families to engage in canoeing and kayaking, whether for competitive racing or fitness purposes. Their commitment to inclusivity, from welcoming members of all abilities to organising various race divisions, ensures that everyone can find their place in the club. With a rich history and a dedication to growth, Gailey Canoe Club continues to be a prominent presence in the New Zealand canoeing community.