Hector and Harry’s Most Excellent Adventure!

Posted By: Peak UK Published: 30/03/2016
Over the Easter weekend I was privileged to support my nephew Hector Hewett and his school friend Harry Mac Coll compete in the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Marathon. The DW is one of the toughest kayak races on the planet. It covers 125miles of the Kennet and Avon Canal and the River Thames.

The junior event is held over four days. Myself and Harry’s father chased, fed and watered the boys all the way from Devizes to Teddington. The junior event is a unique character building test. Not only do the youngsters have to race what amounts to five full marathons back to back, they also have to camp and cook self sufficiently over the four days.

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Unfortunately Storm Katie got the better of the DW and due to 70mph winds and torrential rain, the event had to be cut short at 108miles. The paddlers, supporters and organisers were disappointed, but relived when at 6 am on the final day the storm flattened the camp and even blew down the porta loos!! Luckily I don’t think anyone was in there at the time!!!

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Hector and Harry placed an incredible 32nd / 82 crews in a time of 18hrs 50mins 43 secs. They only started paddling in September.  Marlborough College placed second overall in the team event. Well done to all the guys and girls involved. Your effort and performance was truly inspirational.

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In the non stop event Peak UK paddler Kat Wilson and partner Alex Lane smashed their way to taking the ladies all time record in a time of 17hrs 59mins 45secs. They placed second overall. What an amazing performance.

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Thanks to the event organisers and marshals for putting on another great event in such extreme conditions.

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Special thanks need to go to Russ, Duncan and the staff team at Marlborough College. You guys truly inspired the youngsters into taking on and conquering this amazing challenge.

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Hector and Harry are raising money for the Tusk Trust and David Shedrick Wildlife Trust, both charities close to Hector’s Kenyan home. To donate please click the link below:

Virgin Money Giving

Pete Astles. ( Hector's Uncle )