The Patterson Lakes Canoe Club high performance squad, ‘PACE’, had the privilege of meeting Ken Wallace (Olympic Gold & Bronze medallist – Beijing), Bernadette Wallace (Australian representative) and Lynda Lehmann (1992 Olympic representative).
Ken, Bernadette & Lynda were greeted by a young and enthusiastic group at the Patterson Lakes Canoe Club on Saturday 9th October. Ken talked the group through footage of his Olympic finals, and answered questions from the floor for almost an hour. His drive, hard-work, yet relaxed manner was an inspiration to most in the room. Ken and Bernadette then picked up a K1 from the clubhouse and lead the group of nearly 40 K1s down to the Patterson River for an on-water clinic. The day concluded with dinner at a local restaurant, and an opportunity for individuals to chat one on one with Ken, Bernadette & Lynda.
The PACE group were very proud to host the elite athletes, especially in only the squads third month of operation. Much hard work has taken place this calendar year to get this high performance concept, which caters for both sprint & marathon paddlers, started. The benefits though, are already beginning to show from the number of young athletes joining and the enthusiasm displayed.
For further details about the Patterson Lakes Canoe Club PACE program, please visit the website www.pacekayaking.org.au or email: coach@pacekayaking.org,au
