A Summer Season Photo Summary

As the good(ish) weather officially comes to an end here in Europe, I thought i’d put up a post with some of my favourite pictures of the spring/summer season. I managed to squeeze in two trips to the Piemonte/Ticino regions, before heading north, as ever, to Norway. This season we did some more exploration, both in central Norway, and further north, as well as paddling a number of rivers which have been secretly documented in some detail over the past few years, and since the publication of this online guidebook are set to become classics.

These are some of my favourite shots, huge thanks go to the photographers, as well as the people in them!

First up – I finally caught the Devil’s slide at the perfect level, in the right mood. Huge thanks to Adam Dumolo for taking this photo whilst simultaneously doing safety for this one.

 

Next, an excellent shot from Tom Parker of a sweet boof in the Lower Sermenza Gorge. I’ve been absoulutely loving my Harlequin Fuse Jacket, definately the comfiest shell garment ever, and coloured to match everything!

 

 

 

 

Lakeside camping in Hattfjelldal, Norway. Is this the best paddling destination in Europe?

Next up a shot by Hugh Graham, of Finn Burrows lining up for a rinsing. Dusj-boof (Shower-boof in Norsk)on the Susna. One of the most fun rapids anywhere, especially in high water, when it becomes Wipeout-boof.

 

This shot was taken by a friendly local, who regularly fishes the pool below this fall. Yours truly, on the first descent of Storfossen, on the Herdalselva, near Valdal.

Due to the trees being harvested on the right hand bank of the Mikkemus-elva, there was excellent light for photos for the first time tis year. Here Hugh Graham hits the perfect line. Watch out for Hugh, he’s one of those people who makes everything look a bit too easy.

 

Finally, a shot of Finn I took on the incredible Tverraga, another first descent and a true gem of a river way up inside the Arctic Circle.

I’m now back in the UK for a while, waiting for storm fronts to roll in and dump their goods in the hills. The new Mambas will be arriving soon and I can’t wait to get mine out and flying.

See you on the river!

Nick

Vaniljesaus – film trailer…

Hi all. We’re back in the UK and work has begun on the film we’re making of this summer’s Norwegian Odyssey.

It’s called Vaniljesaus (Pronounced Vanilla Jesus), and will be released online here on the Palm Blog within the next few weeks. For now here’s a sneak peek….

Vaniljesaus – Trailer from Nick Horwood on Vimeo.

Vaniljesaus – Trailer

More coming soon…

Finn & Nick

Join us at the Tryweryn Festival this weekend.

Fancy going paddling at the weekend?

Some where with warm water perhaps? And guaranteed whitewater? And sun?

Well, why not come join us in North Wales for the Tryweryn Festival 2011? If it’s anything like last year’s it’s set to be a cracker.

Why should I go?

• Try the full Dagger Europe whitewater range. On real whitewater. For free.
• Get some coaching from top coaching providers including Palm’s Lowri Davies. Whether you want to gain confidence on grade 3/4, perfect your playboating, or simply fancy a guided trip of the scenic lower Tryweryn, these guys will be able to help you out. Sign up when you arrive.
• Race in the PALM 8-BALL! This is full contact paddling. Think head-to-head boaterX mixed with Robot Wars. The aim? Get to the bottom of the section first and avoid being taken out by one of many inflatable kayakers in your path…. (Exact time to be confirmed although probably Saturday afternoon)
• Leave your car at the takeout and take advantage of free shuttles throughout the weekend. Leaving you with more time on the water! Ace.
• Outfit your boat. Do you struggle getting the fit of your Dagger kayak just right? Come see us and we’ll help you pad it out to perfection!
• Discover Palm’s 2011 range. We’ll have experts on hand to talk you through the range and our design process.
• Bring your bike and take part in the multisport challenge.

Sounds good! How much is it?

Tickets are £25 and on sale now! Call the centre on 01678 521 083 or pop in to reception to book. Please advise of any dietary requirments at time of booking.
As with last year there will be shuttles from the lower river, camping at Bala Mill on Friday and Saturday night, evening entertainment and meals provided on Friday and Saturday night.

Where can I find out more information?

More info on Tryweryn Website

Facebook Event Page

I’m convinced, now show me some shots of last year’s 8-Ball Carnage!

I thought you’d never ask. Here you go.

This all sounds a bit advanced to me, is there anywhere I can go to try paddling for the first time?

Don’t forget, we’re also in the East Midlands this weekend at the Midsummer Great Escape in Belvoir Castle. The perfect opportunity to get on the water for the first time…