YOUNG canoeists from Bradford and Bingley Canoe Club have been honoured for their astounding efforts at the national Cardington Inter-clubs Championship.

Cameron Ford and George Sharp were placed as the highest performing Under-14s over the weekend of racing, following in the footsteps of Olympic gold medallist Joe Clarke.

A team of 11 paddlers from the club travelled south over the weekend to compete in the different disciplines of individual kayak (K1), individual canoe (C1) and C2 (with two paddlers in one canoe), by navigating a course of 19 slalom gates against the clock.

Sharp won the Peter Hanover award for having the best result of any K1 under the age of 14 at the event. This trophy had previously been won by the aforementioned Clarke.

However, Sharp was not fazed by the great names who had won before him and will now go on to race the remainder of the year in Division One, with the hope of being promoted to the Premier Division at the beginning of next year.

Ford won the Peter Denton prize as the best C1 under-14, although this is not his only discipline.

He also competes in the K1 category and is in Division One for both events, therefore balancing a busy schedule of racing.

Mark Fairbrass, canoe club chairman, said: "As a club we are very proud of these two young paddlers, who have excelled and have been part of the GB training programmes from a young age.

"Their dedication really shows in their passion for the sport and this event was the best one the club has experienced yet. Fun was had by all and we couldn't be prouder of George and Cami."

The Bradford and Bingley Canoe Club, located at Wagon Lane in Bingley, have had a successful year, becoming Yorkshire Slalom Club Champions for the second year running.

They have also been chosen to become a talent club partner with British Canoeing and continue to bring this little known sport to those living in the area. Go to www.bradbingcc.co.uk for more information.