Loch Sheil

Allan, Paul, Áine, Kate, Vincent, Colin, Martin & Liz all headed to the Southern end of Loch Sheil for the NCC Tuesday evening paddle.

Put in was at Dalilea pier and the group first headed for St Finnan’s isle where landing gave an instantaneous feel of the spiritual importance of the place. The simplicity of some of the headstones was juxtaposed with the extravagance and complexity of others. How on earth any of the stones made it to the top of this island in one piece is a total mystery! Kate recalled a previous visit as an adolescent when she was warned of a lifetime of bad luck if any of them rang the alter bell. Oddly, none of the paddlers was minded to test it out!

The cloud was low and the wind gave an almost tidal feel to the paddle however the group then moved to the South side of the loch to explore the bays and jetties around Achanellan before returning to the cars and midges.

We Were in Boats!

Last night we organised what will hopefully be the first of an annual event for Nevis Canoe Club. The idea was to get as many people in boats as possible, which would hopefully create some interest for our club.

We had a great turn out and some fantastic weather. As well as having plenty of poeple from around Fort William the Tuesday night sea kayakers where out and had a journey around and across Loch Linhe. After everyone had played around on the water it was back into the club house for some food and cake.

Coaching on the Oich

Steve, Allan and Graham were on the River Oich with Chris Dickinson, who was raising money for Nepal Schools Trust. This meant we had a Level 5 Coach giving us loads of really useful pointers and tips all the way down the river. We were really lucky to have Chris give us his time for a small donation to Nepal Schools Trust.

Starting off

Chris Coaching

Steve heading down the rapids

After a successful descent

Getting an audience

Everyone had a great time on the river and Chris and Graham headed to the Garry afterwards before heading home.