Where would you like to see the sport of Raft Racing go in the UK. How do you see it developing?

In the past few years we have started to run our own raft race events, which has been a huge amount of work, but a massive amount of fun. We have had such great support from people coming along and taking part, as well as really generous hosts and sponsors that help make the events great. The paddling community have really enjoyed coming and doing something different, as well as complete newcomers to the water who have now started their own teams! Next year we have four events planned, as well as an Alpine training camp, which is really exciting. The BCU have awarded us some funding to buy more equipment to make these events even better and help more people access sport, so things are developing and the arrival of of youth and junior teams means that the sport is becoming more sustainable and feels like it has a real future. Hopefully we can keep building on our success at home and Internationally and create something that more people want to get involved with, and that will attract more sponsorship so we can ensure we remain a force to be reckoned with as a nation!

You have competed in so many different sports. What is it about competing that you love so much?

I have always enjoyed competing as a team, I find it much more motivating knowing that your team mates are relying on you to do your absolute best. It is an amazing feeling when you get a good result and everyone is buzzing because they know they have given it their all.
It makes getting off the sofa and going for a run or a training session easier, as you know there a six other girls out there having to do the same! I love the competitions and the buzz of the events, sitting on the start line and getting ready to paddle as hard as you can and put all that training to good use! I love pushing yourself to the limit and it is always amazing what you can do when the element of competition comes in! Suddenly there is just that bit more in the tank!

How has the GB Womens Raft Team changed over the years?
In many ways we haven’t changed that much, we have managed to keep a team that is really close and we are all really good friends. I have definitely made life long friends that I will always keep in touch with and have adventures with. We have always managed to maintain the fun and enjoyment, but I guess the main difference over the years has been the level of training and dedication. We have always been dedicated, but the level of commitment to the team now is incredible. Everyone trains so hard, not just at the weekends that we meet up at, but also every day of the week in between. Having a coach has made a huge difference to us as a team, and when there is someone willing to give up their time and energy just to make you better a as team, it definitely makes you more committed and determined to be the best you can be.

Most memorable rafting experience?

There are so many, it is hard to choose! Team GB won double gold (men’s and women’s team both got the gold) in the Head to Head in Austria, and then again the next year in Bosnia. It really felt like we were finally getting recognised as teams to look out for which felt amazing. We walked into the marquee for prize giving in Austria and all the teams stood up as we entered and gave us a standing ovation – this was amazing as some of the best teams on the world are based in Europe, and there they were cheering us! In Bosnia when we won the double gold, we were interviewed live on tv, featured in the national newspapers and everyone wanted to shake our hands, have their photo taken with us and generally just be a part of us! Incredible! So many more memories that will last forever, but it is always just such a proud feeling to be walking in the parade at the opening ceremonies to these events, wearing our kit and flying the flag, representing your country!
Most memorable moment with the team?

It’s difficult to say, as the team has constantly changed and evolved. However, the team as we are now going into this World Champs feels stronger and fitter than anytime before and I am really proud of how we have all stepped up to the mission. Last year we went to the European Champs in Czech Republic, and for two of the girls it was their first competition, yet we had our most consistent results ever! We got to the bottom of the downriver endurance and had raced the best race ever, sweet lines, well paced and held off the Belgians who were on our tail all the way down the river. Although we didn’t get a medal (we came 4th), it felt like it didn’t matter because we knew we had raced the best race we could, and that is a great feeling!

Thanks Deb!

Words Fran

Photos: Fran and the Team.