AN EXCELLENT PRACTICE FOR ANYONE GOING TO THE HASLER FINAL.
THIS IS 2026/27 SEASON SO ANY Ps or Ds WILL NOT AFFECT YOUR DIVISION FOR THE FINAL.
LARGE STARTS AT THE FINAL WILL BE CHOPPY, SO COME AND GET SOME PRACTICE WITH 'THE GLOUCESTER CHOP'
VENUE
Gloucester Boathouse, David Hook Way, Gloucester GL2 5LL (this is on the West side of the canal, we have found some satnavs are taking people to the East)
SITE INFORMATION
It is a permanent building next to the Gloucester Sharpness Canal, with toilet facilities.
There is free car parking included in the entry fee, please follow signage and directions from marshals.
The car boot sale/market has now reopened on the adjacent site on Sundays. Please try to avoid arriving very close to 9am as there may be congestion.
CLASSES
SINGLES 1,2,3 (12miles), 4,5,6 (8miles) 7,8,9, (4miles)
Geoff Sanders U14 (2miles) A, B, C
DOUBLES 2, 3,(12 miles) 4,5,6 (8 miles) 7, 8, 9 (4 miles)
Geoff Sanders TBC
ROUTES
We will once again paddle into the historic Gloucester Docks, all classes except GS U14 will turn in the Docks.
Div 1-6 will portage once through the site at the end of the first lap. This is a short portage, please ensure you attend the briefing for further information. Footwear is advised as the portgage is on wooden decking which may become slippery. A 'paddle past' option can be made available.
Keep 'river' right, turns are anti clockwise, unless advised at the briefing for Divisions 7-9
RULES
To be run in accordance with current Paddle UK Marathon Rules. Starts may be merged if there are insufficient entries.
All competitors in 7,8,9 and U14 must wear approved buoyancy aids. Those in classes above are recommended to but may choose not to do so at their own risk.
Canoeing and Kayaking are ‘Assumed risk’- ‘Water contact sports’ that may carry attendant risks. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks, and be responsible for their own action and involvement.
South West Regional Number Boards will be provided to be displayed vertically. Failure to return will result in a charge of £5.
All paddlers must wear club colours to score Hasler points.
Please inform the race organisers of any medical condition that may affect any paddler’s performance or put them at extra risk.
Competitors must render their craft sufficiently buoyant to remain afloat and support the crew’s weight in the event of a capsize
TIMINGS
Check In from 9.00 am.
Briefings U14 10.00 Divisions 7-9 10.20 1-6 11.15
Starts U14 10.15 Divisions 7-9 11.00 1-6 12.20
SUBJECT TO CHANGE EITHER BEFORE OR ON THE DAY.
ENTRY FEES (per seat)
Seniors £13 Juniors £11, U14 £5.
Late Entry Fee £3
Unlike many races there is no charge for car parking on the site, this is included in your entry fee.
HAZARDS
Motorised craft, fishermen, swans, overhanging trees, some high banks.
PRIZES
First 3 places in all classes with 4 or more entries, first 2 places for classes with 3 entries.
REFRESHMENTS
Will be provided free of charge for competitors after the event. The renowned GCC hospitality of hot and cold food and drinks will be available for sale at competitive prices for competitors and supporters before and after races.
Half price hot drinks with own mug.
ENTRY DETAILS
By PUK Marathon Race Entry System.
Please limit any changes on the day to a minimum eg in the case of illness or other extenuating circumstances.
Please ensure you enter to race in the correct division, remember it is a handicap system based on ability!
All competitors in Divisons 1-6 will be required to show current PUK membership card unless entered and verified by Race Entry system prior. Divisions 7-9 and GS should be registered Club Associates on the club portal.
Payment by Stripe
Geoff Sanders are £5 regardless, no late entry surcharge .