In this conversation, Simon Jones interviews Dan Darwall about the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race, exploring its history, the physical and mental challenges faced by participants, and the personal growth that comes from such an intense experience. Dan shares his journey from being a student to a teacher, the rigorous training involved, and the profound impact the race has on students' confidence and resilience.

Takeaways

1. The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race is known as the Canoeist's Everest.
2. Dan returned to teaching after a successful engineering career.
3. Training for the race is intense and starts in January.
4. Participants face both physical and mental challenges during the race.
5. The race is a significant endurance event, akin to ultra marathons.
6. Building resilience is a key focus of the training process.
7. Completing the race instills confidence in students.
8. The experience of the race stays with participants for life.
9. Dan emphasises the importance of teamwork in the race.
10. The race can change a person's outlook and confidence significantly.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/