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British Open 2011 - Season Conclusion The race was held at Holme Pierrpont in Nottingham on the last weekend of October. The British Open is a long standing tradition of the British slalom circuit and the titles are fiercely contested, with the winners entering the off-season on a high and the runners-up adding a bit of fire to their bellies.
All members of the 2011 GB team were racing, withb the exception of PeakUK's Lizzie Neave, who had to withdraw due to injury. International entrants came from New Zealand, France, Austria and Sweden. The qualifying rounds on Saturday saw no big upsets, with all the key players making it though to the semi-final on Sunday.
The semi-final course was racy but tricky and some exciting racing ensued. The highlight of the semi-final was David Bain's crowd pleasing run, taking risks and using his trademark agility to claim his final berth. Laura Blakeman and Baille/Stott flew the flag for PeakUK coming out on top in the semis.
The finals were set to a race commentary which served to raise the atmosphere and sense of occasion. The men's kayak title was won by Richard Hounslow, with young PeakUK racer Joe Clark taking 3rd place with a very tidy run. PeakUK's Huw Swetnam finished 5th.
The men's C1 was competitive, but in the end PeakUk team member Mark Proctor claimed the title, setting his stall out for the London 2012 campaign. In C2 PeakUK's Baille/Stott raced hard into 2nd place, their rivals Florence/Hounslow winning the title by 0.47 seconds.
In the women's kayak race, double (and reigning) World Champion Corrine Kulhne dominated, winning the title, with Laura Blakeman coming in 3rd. It was brilliant to see the best female paddler in the world right now tearing up the course with no mercy! The women's C1 title was claimed by Mallory Franklin.
Now it is time for the PeakUK slalom team to get their winter training plans in order and start preparations for the biggest sports event on earth - London 2012. The excitement and interest is building and PeakUK team members are looking to get in on the action!
Article by Etienne Stott
Photos Paul Ramsdale
(Posted on the 3rd Nov 2011 by pete) |
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