Millpond at Manvers!

Thursday 30 Nov 2023 | by Jane Burren

I woke early with anticipation on Sunday morning and eagerly set off to Manvers Lake the venue for AquaPaddle Rotherham. As I navigated the car park and faced the lake I was greeted by a beautiful glassy millpond, still air and the glimpse of sun. Today was going to be a great AquaPaddle! I am always hesitant about the weather, I can step out of my door at home to calm and then arrive at the lake to have my hat blown off.

The crew set about putting things into action that makes the magic happen. Flags were erected, t-shirts donned and radios distributed. AquaPaddlers were welcomed with a smile and soon inducted to the venue.

There was a mix of craft which always adds interest; kayak, iSUP, race SUP and O1’s. Following their briefing they made their way onto the water and to the starting buoy. 3, 2, 1 and they were off! Paddling into the distance on the first of three laps of the lake. There were four crew on the course of the lake as well buoys to ensure no one made a wrong turn. Our sweeper on hand to offer encouragement to paddlers feeling a little tired.

There is plenty to keep paddlers interested while at the lake; our model boaters, Newfoundland rescue dogs and the flora and fauna. You may get to meet Derick and Doris our resident swans alongside kingfishers, herons and even an Egyptian Goose.

It didn’t seem long before our first finishers were completing their final lap. What was great to see was the sense of community among AquaPaddlers, with finishers awaiting others to cheer on and give encouragement and praise.

In summary another great AquaPaddle! Returning AquaPaddlers getting PB’s, first time AquaPaddlers excited about returning and doing another, and crew excited about going on tour in the New Year to visit some other AquaPaddle venues. Our next AquaPaddle Rotherham is on 17th December, a Santa theme of course! It would be great to see you there.