Sunday 2^nd April, Aberdeen University hosted the 8^th North Esk Whitewater Kayaking Race and it was a roaring success. The event has not been held since 2019 due to the pandemic. Numerous kayakers, from the University and out with, volunteered to act as Safety Marshals positioned along the river as boat and bank safety. They did an amazing job looking after all the competitors. A number of volunteers also helped with time keeping, first aid, and driving the shuttles.

46 people were entered in the Advanced Race which started above Rock Garden and finished after Presidents. The quickest times were 5:52 (Men) and 6:53 (Women). 18 competitors then competed in the Intermediate race which finished before Rocks of Solitude. The event was then completed with 17 people competing in Iron(wo)man, requiring them to kayak down following the Advanced route before running to the finish line. The race was really well attended by people from all around Scotland, (and other parts of the UK).

The event had a vast range of sponsors donating prizes: Red Bull, NRS, Peak, Immersion Research, Escape Watersports, System X, Pyranha, Tiso, Brewdog.

Some of the prizes included IR Dry Cags, NRS straps, Pyranha GeoFish shorts, and Tiso vouchers. Prize winners were also presented with sustainable medals and the Advanced winners received a kayak trophy made from recycled bike parts by Mark Delaney.

During the day there was also a litter picking competition, for which two people won great prizes (towel robe, Ainsworth paddle, Brewdog book, and Overboard first aid bag).

Link to events pictures:

North Esk River Race 2023- Picture 1
North Esk River Race 2023- Picture 2

Full results can be found on the link below.