My First GB Selection Experience at Lee Valley
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 23
by Riley Wilford
A First Taste of GB Selection at Lee Valley
Now that the first of two GB selection weekends is over, I’ve finally had time to sit back, think about it all… and get ready to do it again at HPP!
This was my first-ever GB selection, and I entered C1 and Kayak Cross. I went into the weekend as the lowest bib number in both, so I honestly felt like I had nothing to prove, which weirdly made it feel exciting rather than scary.
The weekend was different from a normal race because all the K1 races were in the morning and C1 in the afternoon. That felt a bit strange at first, but the bonus was a lie‑in, which was absolutely amazing.
C1 Goals and First Runs
In my C1, my goals were simple: paddle my best, stay upright, avoid 50s if I could… but most importantly, enjoy the experience. I knew I wasn’t expected to be near the top or fighting for selection; this was all about learning and gaining experience. Even so, I gave it everything. I had a really strong first run, and although I picked up a 50 on my second run, I was still really pleased with how I paddled. Best of all… I didn’t come last.
Like every race, I was nervous, but it felt different this time. I knew I had nothing to lose. I actually think that as the years go on, and hopefully I get closer to selection, the nerves will only get bigger.
Kayak Cross Challenges
Then came Kayak Cross, and that’s when the nerves really kicked in. I’ve done well in kayak cross before, so I definitely felt more pressure. My aims weren’t huge, though: get through the time trial and get a head‑to‑head race. There were two competitions in one day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, which made it a long, freezing, exhausting day.
In both races, I got through the time trials and into the semi‑final head‑to‑head, but I didn’t quite make it to the final. By the end of the day, I was so tired and cold that, honestly, I was quite glad I didn’t, and so was my mum, because it meant we could finally head home!
The most chilled moment of the day is always sitting on the ramp before a kayak cross race, trying to work out where I’m going to go and guessing what everyone else will do. Then they shout “GO!” and everything disappears except the race, and I give it absolutely everything. I finished 12th overall, and I felt genuinely happy with that.
Support Makes All the Difference
A highlight for me was having my Auntie and Uncle there for support. They live nearby, and it was nice to see a friendly face.
Every single time I paddle, I learn something new, and that’s what excites me most. There is so much still to learn, and that’s what keeps me coming back.
I was really happy with my results across the weekend and felt it was a solid start to my GB selection journey. Most importantly, though, I came out of it unhurt, which for me… doesn’t happen very often.
Racing at Lee Valley
I absolutely love paddling at Lee Valley, and I’ve had some great races there this season. I was a little nervous about the race, though, last time I was there I caught my face on the bottom and had to get it glued back together before racing. Still, it’s an incredible privilege to paddle on the same course that hosted the 2012 Olympics and to be on the water alongside Olympic medallists.
One of the highlights of the season so far was meeting Adam Burgess. He was amazing. I got a photo with him, he offered to walk the course with me, gave me some great advice, and even watched me race. He’s a genuinely really nice guy. Kimberly Woods has also helped me loads with kayak cross advice and kit choices, and I always love seeing Gwion, who is so supportive and a real inspiration.
Paddling at Lee Valley, there are bits I enjoy and some not so much. At this race, I loved the challenge of having ups in the features; the moves were harder and more challenging than I had done before, but that made it feel even better when I did them well. It was a very long course and really pushed my aerobic fitness.
And honestly… one of my favourite parts of the weekend is always the food in the Lee Valley café! That, and spending time with some amazing people and feeling supported by my coaches.
Looking Ahead to HPP
This time next year, I’d love to be pushing towards Prem and finishing a few places higher in selection, but more than anything, I want to still be enjoying my paddling.
If you’re ever thinking about trying slalom or taking your paddling to the next level, just go for it, but make sure you always enjoy it.
Next up, I have to do it all again at HPP for the second GB selection weekend. I know the nerves will be back as soon as I arrive, probably even stronger this time, but I’m trying to remind myself why I’m there. I want to enjoy every run, take in the experience, and walk away knowing I’ve paddled as well as I possibly can. If I can give it my all, learn something new, and come off the water smiling, then that’s a win for me, no matter what the results say. I will get spoiled by my grandparents, who live in Nottingham, so that will help with the nerves.
See you on the water
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