Success at First Inclusive Aberdeen Kayak Club Taster

Participant with disability being assisted into a kayak

A partnership inclusive taster session programme has gotten off to a great start in Grampian.

Aberdeen Kayak Club opened their doors to those with disabilities some time ago, but a joint project with SDS, the MS Society & the Scottish Canoe Association looks likely to help increase regular participation in the exhilarating sport.

The project – a series of three free taster sessions aimed at people with disabilities aged 9+ and their parents, carers, partners, siblings and friends – started on the 18th July and saw approximately 10 new participants try out Paddlesport with the Club. It is hoped that following the taster series, the participants will have made progress in their skills & will be encouraged to become members of the Club thereafter.

Despite some thunder and lightning towards the end of the evening, which caused the session to end slightly prematurely, and a handful of participants capsizing, all participants had a fantastic experience & are looking forward to the next session, which takes place on the 1st August.

Well done to all of the participants for giving it their all and thank you to Roger from SCA and all of the volunteers from Aberdeen Kayak Club who made everyone feel welcome & included despite having a much higher than expected turnout on the night.

If you live with a physical, sensory or intellectual disability in Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire or Moray (or know someone who does) and would like to get more involved in sport, please get in touch with Alison Shaw on 07828 744 848 or alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com.