Clifford R.

After six weeks on the calm water of Lee Valley White Water Centre’s lake, the group of 15 over 50’s kayakers had learnt the basics, how to roll their kayak and recover, get their sizeable vessels in and out of the water and were ready for some choppier challenges.

At 78 years young, retired bus driver Clifford is this group’s oldest member. Age is just a number to father of four Clifford, whose adventurous spirit has not been tempered by a triple heart bypass five years ago.

“I’ll give things a go and the kayaking has been very good value. The instructors are excellent and have been extremely patient. I’m deaf, therefore needed extra help.”

This University of the Third Age (u3a) group are meeting new people and learning a new skill at the Olympic legacy venue thanks to a grant from Lee Valley Regional Park Authority’s Community Access Fund. The fund covers the cost of transport or pays for access and activities for dozens of similar exercise and wellbeing projects every year at the Authority’s world class venues – which include two other Olympic legacy venues – Lee Valley VeloPark and Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre – plus centres for horse riding, athletics and ice skating and within its award-winning parkland.

Clifford, who spent his teenage years as an artillery rifleman in the army, added: “When this activity came up, I thought ‘why not?’ I’ve done indoor skydiving, zip lining, scuba diving, rock climbing, paragliding and wild swimming, so why not kayaking?

“The activity is very good exercise and can be quite challenging, but it’s also good for mental wellbeing. You’re never too old to try something new.”

The Authority’s Community Access Fund has funded kayaking for the u3a over 50s at its world leading white water venue in Waltham Cross – also home to Great Britain’s Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross team - for a number of years.

“I worked as a bus driver for 42 years but had to retire after my surgery. After I recovered, I found myself bored and depressed. Without the routine of my job, I felt I had no purpose. I’d always been the provider. Then I started exercising and trying new activities like kayaking and have found them really valuable. We’re very lucky to have such a fantastic facility like this so close to where we live,” said Clifford, who lives with wife Sandra in Cheshunt.

Other members of the spring 2024 group have also enjoyed the experience. Retired carer, Anne, from Ware, decided to give the activity a go as a treat for her 70thbirthday. “It’s been a great adventure. The tuition has been excellent, and I’ll definitely be back for more.”

Peter is a full-time carer and has found the kayaking course has given him some much needed time out. “It’s been wonderful to learn a new skill and challenge myself. The team are very encouraging. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people. It’s been a very sociable experience.”

This year Lee Valley Regional Park Authority is increasing its support for community groups and schools with £120,000 for communities across London, Essex and Hertfordshire. 

This includes a boosted Community Access Fund. Not for profit organisations, registered charities, voluntary, school and community groups are invited to get in touch and see how they could benefit - Community Access Fund.