LYG Kayaking and Rowing Competitions give young Londoners the chance to compete

23rd Jun 2025
Yolanda Martin
Team celebrates group win

Over the weekend, 160 athletes competed in the kayaking competition at Fairlop Waters, covering two kayak events: sprint and slalom. In the sprint event, participants raced 50 meters/ 200 meters. In the slalom, participants aimed to navigate the course through suspended gates in the correct order without touching the gates in the quickest time possible.   

  

School sport lead Bren Amooty from Alexandra Park School talks about the amazing experience paddlers had. “Our paddlers had an amazing experience and left the venue feeling so proud of their achievements. Parents had nothing but praise for the opportunity  provided and appreciation for how understanding and inclusive the event was.”   

  

Congratulations to the overall borough winners  

Sprint Winners:  

  

Gold: Richmond   

Silver: Tower Hamlets   

Bronze: Hackney  

  

Slalom Winners:   

  

Gold: Redbridge  

Silver: Kingston  

Bronze: Tower Hamlets   

  

At Gunnersbury Park Sports Hub, 222 athletes from 12 boroughs competed in the indoor rowing competition. Participants competed to row the furthest distance within a set time period.   

  

There was a competitive spirit in the air as athletes were eager to score points and secure a medal. But medals were not the only thing that athletes won. They also gained experience and strengthened their skills, as this was the first time competing in rowing for some participants.   

  

Freddie Amore shared his experience and love for rowing. “I row because it’s such an amazing sport – it’s incredibly rewarding and there’s a great community built around my club. You really get something out of coming here. Today, I would advise younger people to trust the process. As a junior coach, I love seeing people develop and progress through the sport.” 

  

Congratulations to the overall borough winners   

1st Place: Hackney  

2nd Place: Hounslow  

3rd Place: Haringey   

  

Thank you to all the staff who ensured the events ran smoothly, thanks to Fairlop Outdoor Activity Centre, Redbridge Vision and Gunnersbury Park Sports Hub who hosted the events and thanks to the BTO’s and Team Managers who supported the day.