16-year old Albert Hicks returned home from international competition with a fantastic 2^nd place in the Gent international marathon at the weekend. He had traveled there in a team of 25 junior development athletes from all round the country and included 4 members from Norwich Canoe Club. Along with Albert, Norwich was represented by Oli Rix, Ashley Nobbs and Stacey Terry who had all been selected following assessment at training days over the winter.

The 18km race covered a lap of the Gent regatta course, with two loops around the canals which run through the city, negotiating four portages along the way. A good start is critical, and Albert Hicks had a flyer and got his race off well by making the front group along with two Belgian internationals. Over the race Albert, who attends Attleborough High, and the two Belgium’s built up a healthy lead and then coming into the last portage, Albert managed to drop one of the Belgium paddlers. He had a spirited go at trying to beat the other who was no less than world junior sprint champion Joeri Weckx, but couldn’t hold him off in the final sprint, so Albert claimed an excellent 2^nd place. 

Ashley Nobbs from Thorpe St Andrew High School also had an excellent race, competing in his first international, and although only 14 years old competed along side boys up to the age of 18, and finished a creditable 13th position. Oli Rix, sadly, was unable to finish the race due to injury. Stacey Terry, 15, from Costessy High, again at her first international and competing against older girls had a good race.

All these young athletes will be back in action at Bedford in a couple of weeks time at the first national team assessment race. We wish them well.