MARLINS Section
Welcome to the MCC Marlins (Junior Slalom) section
The Marlins is a sub-section of Manchester Canoe Club dedicated to providing a structure to allow junior paddlers to develop in the sport of Canoe Slalom. It is one of the most spectacular water sports, demanding skill, stamina and courage. The aim is to run a moving water course marked by “gates” fast and without touching them. For more information about the sport please visit the canoe slalom website.
If you are interested in joining the Marlins, please contact Mark Davies.
Training
Tuesdays: 6.30 to 7.30pm
Thursdays: 6.30 to 7.30+ pm
The Marlins meet every Tuesday and/or Thursday at the club site, to be on the water for 6.30 and finish about 7.30, though many decide to stay on the water to play at the end of the session. The training sessions are designed to be appropriate to the age and abilities of the paddlers with the emphasis being on having fun, especially for the younger paddlers.
Cost for the Marlins
To be a Marlin young paddlers first need to club members, either as a ‘Junior member if they’re the sole family member wishing to a member, or as a ‘Family member if added onto an Adult or Junior member.
On top of this they will need to pay £40 every 6 months, 1st April to 30th September and 1st October to 31st March. This pays for kit hire, which includes an allocated boat, helmet, buoyancy aid and spray deck. Marlins therefore do not need to pay any further kit hire fees to use club slalom boats on or off site.
Kit for Marlins
The club provides much of the specialised equipment that the young paddler will need. However each paddler will need some equipment of their own, including:
Wetsuit or paddling shorts: Normally these will be neoprene. A long-john type of wet-suit, rather than a full body one, is best as it allows more freedom for the movement of the arms.
Paddling shoes: Slalom boats do not have a great deal of foot room so thick shoes, like trainers, are inappropriate. Neoprene boots are normally used, though Decathlon sell a rubber slipper that is popular with some paddlers.
Thermal base layer: This needs to be quite tight fitting and can be worn under a wetsuit or a cag. Any synthetic base layer will be adequate. Tops made from a thicker material are also available from specialist retailers for the colder weather.
Paddling cag: At first any waterproof coat will do, but soon a purpose made paddling cag will be needed as they stop water from going up the sleeves and down the neck. The cheaper cags are not designed to keep the water out, more to keep the spray off and prevent wind chill, but these are adequate for paddlers starting out.
Pogies: These are specialist kayak equipment designed to protect the hands and are essential if the paddler is wishing to continue paddling through the winter.
Useful links for equipment and canoe slalom in general
