Winter Solstice, the return of the light, travel & fine times.
2020's Darkest Days Will Soon Pass
The shortest day of the year in the north hemisphere is but a few days away. The Winter Solstice, traditionally celebrated as the moment in winter when the days start again to get longer, the coming of the light, the light of spring.

For most of us paddlers, will mean a spring renewed, a chance to travel again to our favourite places, rivers and destinations. For us at Gene17Kayaking, we are aiming for a spring to remember in Valsesia in May 2021. By which time the vaccine roll out would be well under way, and some degree of normal travel should be possible. We hope you can join us in Italy for May or Norway for next summer.

Until then, we have some great news below from Valsesia which has seen both Jakub & Simon working on the Save the Sorba campaign committee. Plus Simon has been involved with the new Dagger Code Kayak prototype development. Available by summer 2021, this is Dagger Phantom like update for the classic river running creek boat the Dagger Mamba, both faster, easier to paddle and fun.
Spring in Valsesia
In 2020 for the first time in 20+ years we did not get to Valsesia in Italy. Like so many paddlers unable to hit their annual highlights, we are determined anew to be there in 2021. We have a full programme from early May through to mid June, on offer....


We hope to see you in Valsesia.
Save the Sorba
We have some great news. The campaign to Save the Sorba, reached their key target of over 10000 signatures for petition. So a huge THANK YOU.

Yesterday the campaign presented their strong case to protect this amazing free flowing river at the Water Court in Rome, Italy. However the outcome is unlikely to be known until mid January 2021.

The wait may feel long, but we now have strength in numbers. In the mean time please head over to a recent blog post Simon's reflections of the Sorba.

To learn more about the campaign see Save Our Rivers for more details & click the button below to Sign the Petition
and finally
Whilst 2020 might not of been the year to have grand days out or big trips away, there have been some good moments, whether running a new line down your home run, trying a new move at a familiar spot or learning a total different style of kayak paddling. Either way your paddling would off put a smile on your face, a grin to show such pleasure kayaking brings. There is always something to treasure.

With that, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and above all a safe time wherever you are.

Greetings, all at Gene17Kayaking.