Aaron's Blog

On Monday evening, Aaron had a watersports evening with the Beavers on the River Tamar (just below and to the side of the bridge) at the proper Scout watersports building. He was a little apprehensive to begin with (and tired as it was after school and a weekend away camping) but once he get into it, he said he enjoyed it, even though he couldn’t tell me what his best and worst bits were!

We got there early, at about 5pm, and ate some food that Kelly had brought with us, before meeting the rest of the Beavers at 17:30. We had never been to the area before but it was lovely, with a nice pub right next to the watersports building that also had a seating area next to the water. Aaron had to go in, with the other beavers, and get his life jacket etc on and then help push a large speed boat out onto the water. The Beavers then took in turns going in the speed boat for a trip around the Tamar and kayaking. We were worried about the kayaking but each boat was attached to a rope that an instructor had hold of, so that was a relief! We had visions of Aaron floating off down the Tamar!! hahaha 

Before they were allowed out on the kayaks, they were all taught how to paddle and sit correctly in the boat. They were all a bit awkward doing this, as they are only 6 and 7 years old, but got the general hang of it. They were then allowed to go in a kayak and paddle out several metres on their own before being pulled back in and paddling out again. As mentioned, they all took turns doing this and riding in the speed boat. Aaron seemed to enjoy it all and did very well with his paddling, though I think his favourite bit was in the speed boat, as he does like his vehicles!

The event lasted 2 1/4 hours, so we didn’t leave until nearly 20:15. We were sat on a table outside the pub and managed to have some drinks and some crisps from the pub. The food there looked lovely as well! Coby was being a bit naughty though and needed to go for a wee in the pub several times, but it was a long time sat around though.

It was a great event for the Beavers and we think Aaron would jump at the change of doing it again. We didn’t even have to pay any extra money for this, which is amazing really. Being part of the Beavers is well worth it!