Located on the Vaal River, we have the best of flatwater and river paddling on our doorstep. Our clubhouse is located just upstream of a weir, giving us kilometres of flatwater, complete with islands, weeping willows and riverine fauna and flora. Spot goliath and grey herons from your kayak and listen for calls of the fish eagles while you paddle. From the clubhouse, heading downstream, is a lovely stretch of whitewater kayaking that we call ‘Top Section’, which takes you into town to convenient takeout spots.
Our spectator-friendly canoe polo field sees regular action with games twice a week in the evenings. A group of teenagers who play canoe polo regularly help to bring down the average of the old stalwarts.
Located close to the town of Parys, the club is convenient to access. Our property has expansive, lush lawns, shade from large trees and braai facilities. Enjoy mingling at our regular month-end social braais. We have an established coaching infrastructure for beginner children and adults as well as competitive junior paddlers.
Where is the club situated?
Where is the club situated. Parys, Free State (120km from Johannesburg and 50km from Potchefstroom and Sasolburg).
When is the time trial?
Tuesday evenings at 17h00. Arrive in time to be on the water and ready to start at 17h00 sharp. You can paddle as many laps of our 4km route as you wish (usually 1 or 2; some do 3).
Over the winter months (from April), time trial starts at 16h30. You have enough time for one or two laps before it gets dark.
Does the club have canoes / Skis for the beginners to try?
We have a fleet of Epic V7 surfskis for beginners. These are ideal for teens and adults. We have guppys for children.
extras
We cater for recreational and competitive paddlers with an interest in flatwater, downriver paddling, whitewater kayaking and canoe polo. We offer proficiency sessions for children, teens and adults who are learning to paddle. We also have a large group of development paddlers from a local school, who train regularly at the club. We hosted a GCU marathon event in May 2018. We are again organising a ‘Treasure Paddle’ for World Orienteering Day on 26 May 2018 and we look forward to presenting our Two-Day Parys Vaal Marathon in October 2018.
Contacts
Chairperson: Herman Vogel 076 082 2566
Secretary: Lisa de Speville, 082 936 2509
Safety officer: Hugh du Preez
Dev coach: Herman Vogel
Publicity manager: Christo Prinsloo
