Big Dog Moriston River Race 2013

May 26th saw the second instalment of the Big Dog Moriston River Race, the UK’s most extreme kayaking event. Paddlers from across the UK traveled to Gods own country (Scotland) to compete on this iconic stretch of river.

Electronic timing and an animated commentator, both new this year, motivated the competitors to greatness as they smashed the previous record by 15seconds (an improved start ramp probably helped as well…). Unusually sunny weather paid tribute to the incredible atmosphere of the event, a positivity that reflects the UK’s hunger for extreme racing and the passion of its paddlers.

Beneath all the glamour the race format remained unchanged. A big seal launch into a challenging and unpredictable first drop followed by some brutal sprints, crucial boof moves and ninja rocks, all conspiring to catch paddlers out. A knock out format, using the combined time of two laps, whittled the field down to 20 finalists from the 100 who entered (double last years number). With 3 timed laps it took consistency and stamina to win.

This year the crown heads south of the border with Rory Woods who took victory with his time of 3:02.61. He was closely followed by Ed Smith in second and Rob Stalker in third. The standard has now been set and the UK scene looks forward to bigger and better things.