Thursday, December 1^st, was a perfect day for a festive canoe race on Derwentwater; dry, not too cold and little to no wind.

Large crowds gathered at the Keswick boat landings at noon to cheer on nine teams of Santa’s and elves in Canadian canoes as they raced around a pre-set course on Derwentwater. The “Quiet Paddlers”, reigning champions from The Quiet Site, Ullswater were there along with two teams from Keswick YHA, three teams from Lake District Hotels and teams from Keswick Tourism Association (KTA), Keswick Alhambra Cinema and Allerdale Borough Council.

After a bit or argy-bargy at the start and a couple of teams heading off in the wrong direction, the race was on. The Allerdale team successfully made it past the first marker, after capsizing there last year, only to find themselves in a battle for fourth place with the Keswick Tourism Association team, KTA eventually being the winners of that battle. Ahead of them, the Quiet Paddlers had taken the lead but faced a strong challenge from Keswick YHA. Ultimately though, the Quiet Paddlers retained their title with Keswick YHA coming a very close second and Keswick Alhambra Cinema finishing in third place.

Vanessa Metcalfe, Tourism Manager and KTA Santa Splash team member said, “The teams and spectators really look forward to this event every year because it is just so much fun. It was a slightly longer course this year, making it harder work but it was great that all the teams made it to the finish line, and no-one fell in. Huge thanks must go to the amazing Derwentwater Marina team. They provide us with the canoes, all the safety equipment and set the course. We really couldn’t do it without them. We can’t wait to do it all again next year”

Daniel Holder, owner of The Quiet Site said, “The Quiet Site team were delighted to be able to take part in the Santa Splash once again. Such a great way to begin the festive season, indeed, just to take part is an uplifting experience, thank you to the KTA for organising again.”