From the CEO’s Desk

Hello Members and paddling enthusiasts,

Isn’t it fantastic that after four months of COVID-enticed sporting inactivity, we are finally able to compete again. Firstly club events resumed, and now state level competition is underway. The PNSW Sprint Series sprung into action last weekend, with another event later this month. Both the PNSW Marathon and Harbour Racing Series will also resume in coming weeks. In Dec/Jan we’ll enjoy PNSW State Championships for both our slalom and sprint paddlers. Stay tuned for more details.

We are of course still conducting events in accordance with NSW Health Orders. All participants (paddlers, officials, volunteers, spectators) over the age of 16 years must be fully vaccinated and be able to demonstrate that to event organisers. The way we conducted events last year is still valid. If you display flu-like symptoms – don’t attend. Be respectful to event volunteers and your fellow paddlers by keeping 1.5m distance. If we have learnt anything in the past 18 months, it is personal hygiene. All affiliated clubs and Paddlesports have been provided with the latest COVID Safety Plan applicable for community sport and outdoor events. Enjoy the freedom and the competition, and don’t forget to thank the volunteers as you leave.

In other news….I’d like to pay tribute to two outstanding paddlers. Jo Brigden-Jones is a double Olympian, and retires after 21 years of competitive sprinting. Elsewhere in this newsletter is a feature article highlighting her remarkable career. Jo was the inaugural Development Officer for PaddleNSW back in 2015, and we fondly wish her well in all future endeavours. 

We were all on the edge of our seat during the Tokyo Olympics when Jessica Fox won Bronze then GOLD. Shortly afterwards in Europe, more World Titles were earned, and then another feather in her cap in the Extreme Slalom category. A phenomenal 2021, and Jess is now a hot-finalist in the NSW Athlete of the Year to be awarded in January.
Stay safe and enjoy your paddling.

– Peter Tate
CEO, PaddleNSW

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