Winchester and District Canoe Club (WDCC) held their annual Division 4 novice open slalom competition today on the calm flatwater channel of the River Itchen alongside their clubhouse at the rear of River Park Leisure Centre.
Competitors of all ages take to the River Itchen to face the challenge of this paddlesport discipline.
Negotiating the gates in a slalom kayak on the River Itchen in Winchester.
Another young competitor swings back upstream against the gentle flow at the start of his descent.
Woodmill Canoe Shop provided a range of kayaks for anyone wishing to try out paddling on the day.
From initial first strokes along a safe shallow channel...
...potential future British Olympians race on the River Itchen.
