Profile

Hi, I’m Tom Drake  and this is my blog of sorts just to really attempt to keep some form of vaguely interesting stuff going down. I would like to write some more articles on coaching, technique and kit- all of which is in the pipeline.  Currently I’m studying for a degree in medicine and being a student is quite good as I can get out paddling quite a bit in the local area and further afield .

I do a mix of Playboating and creeking and  get about Europe quite a bit. So , if  anyone sees me on the water pop up say hi (I like talking to people) and if you ever want any  paddling coaching I dish it out for free.

Kit

Stohlquist dry gear

Jackson kayak star

Ophion Paddles

Years paddling

I got in a boat at about 10 then didn’t properly start paddling until i was 13, but 2007 was my first year in freestyle

Birthplace

Chertsey, home to the mighty Chertsey weir.

Favorite type of paddling?

Freestyle 50%,50% river/creek run in there is also good. I have also competed in other disciplines like canoe polo, where we won two leagues back to back, and have done some slalom too. I’m also heavily involved in the running of my uni canoe club.

Best Paddle?

Hawaii sur Rhone; and the la scie waves look amazing as i’m off to europe in the summer, a little closer to home Hurley on three gates is unbeatable. River wise I’m a big fan of the Sorba slides in Val Sesia, Italy

Best move pulled?

Air looping over someone in the inlet gate at nottingham. Apparently it was really good….. I just thought “oh this is going to hurt” when i saw what was underneath me but it didn’t!

Tom D

Big thanks to anyone who’s helped me out too, squarerock, ophion, pretty much everyone i paddle with too .