Tarka Ski race shows Haynes is the one to watch in 2011!

Some 70 paddlers graced the river Taw yesterday in Barnstaple for the annual ICON classic Tarka Ski race. With seniors paddling 12k, masters and U19's 8K and the youngsters 4K it was once again a great spectacle.

The fast incoming tide made the start very difficult as the paddlers battled the rushing water. However fresh from training camp in South Africa, it was last years 3rd place in the Legacy and event winner at Aberavon George Haynes who amazed everyone as he kept up with the leaders on his spec ski, whilst they were paddling the new racing kayaks 5k lighter and 2 foot longer usually a massive advantage. Haynes eventually finished 3rd but forst on the spec ski's in a disciupline that last year would have been his weakest!! Watch out boys he is flying!

The under 16 male race featured 2 of the very strong contenders for the U 18 event this year. Won by Robin Fielder from Hayle it was young Scooby Lark who finished second ahead of rival Matt Trewhella.

In the womens event it was a first hit out for the girls who will contest the series this year. Eva Murphy back from her injury worries of 2010 was the fastest even paddling too strong on the final lap for your truly!! Ellie parker and Emily Corrin looked in reasonable shape as did under 16's Grace Clark and Lily Nichols.

With 6 weeks to go to the enduro in Wales and the water temperature rising things should start to get interesting from here on.

Please note that Race 1 is now Sunday June 5th to accomadate the junior ranking event at Barry sland on the Saturday. The question on everyones lips though... 'Who will be the 2011 Legacy champions?"