Join Us
A Welcome from our Chairman
” Welcome to Truro Racing Canoe Club and one of the most successful and diverse marathon and sprint kayak racing clubs in the South West. We have athletes across the spectrum of age and ability groups, and our fortunate to count several previous and current International athletes in our number as well as the team coach for Los Angeles, Seoul and Barcelona Olympic Games. That said, it’s not all about elite racing. We have many active members who participate in our weekly training sessions and enjoy taking part in our local 10km Winter Time Trial series as well as the Regional Hasler competitions that take place every month during the Summer. If you just want to exercise for the heath and well being benefits of sharing the river with like minded friends, then that’s ok too! Happy Paddling! “
Inductions
All new members are invited to come along to an induction session before joining regular training. Our qualified coaches will take you out on the river, introduce you to the club equipment and gently guide you through the basics of paddling. Sessions are relaxed and supportive, with plenty of time to ask questions and build confidence on the water.
In order to ensure everyone’s safety, please note that our kayaks are designed to a limit of 100kg weight, and for those with a hip size that can fit comfortably in a cockpit with a width of 50cm.
We have a wide range of kayaks suitable for paddlers aged 9 to 90, along with paddles and buoyancy aids in a variety of sizes, so there’s no need to have your own kit to get started. The club fleet includes boats ranging from stable beginner kayaks (such as Kirton Tercels) through to more advanced racing boats, including lightweight pedigree racing kayaks for experienced paddlers. Please note that our stable kayaks are still more unstable than kayaks you may have used at the beach and those booking an induction should be comfortable with falling in (Your Paddlesport leader will be on hand to assist). As your confidence and skills develop, you’ll naturally progress through different boat types. Our coaches will guide you through this safely and at your own pace. We always match paddlers to boats that are appropriate for their experience level so there’s never any pressure to move into a less stable boat until you feel ready.
Club equipment is available for members to use during training sessions, making it easy to continue paddling without the immediate cost of buying your own boat.
Inductions usually take place at the start of our Saturday training sessions. As our coaches give their time voluntarily and we work around the tides, session times can vary and we’ll always confirm the details in advance.
No previous experience is needed, just come along ready to give it a go!
Inductions are designed to:
- Introduce you to the club and how sessions run
- Cover a safety briefing and basic paddling skills
- Ensure you are comfortable on the water
- Help us assess which training group will suit you best
Once you’ve booked your induction, you’ll receive a digital welcome pack with everything you need to know before your first session. This includes what to expect at Truro Canoe Club, what to wear, the equipment available to you, how to progress after your induction, and useful information about the river we paddle on.
Already have experience? If you already have racing experience please be sure to let us know the amount and standard when arranging to visit so that we can direct you to the most appropriate training group.
Progressing after Induction: After your induction, you’ll be guided in a training group that suits your age and ability. From there you can build confidence, improve technique, increase fitness, try out different boats and if you’d like, take part in local races. Progression looks different to everyone, some members train for fitness and enjoyment, while others work towards racing goals. Whatever your reason for paddling, we’ll help you get on the water and enjoy it!
