Wonderkid Webb paddles back from the brink for GB (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Wonderkid Webb paddles back from the brink for GB

9:23am Thursday 25th September 2008

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Wildwater racing: A canoeing starlet who nearly drowned the first time he tried the sport is paddling to the top of the wildwater racing world.

Aaron Webb, of Northgate Street, Devizes, gave up canoeing for six months after his boat flipped and he fell unconscious as he struggled to get back above water four years ago.

But the 15-year-old - who trains six nights a week at the Wiltshire Youth Canoe Club in Melksham - has since become the third fastest junior in the country on raging waters and competes for Great Britain at international events.

The John Bentley School pupil is now targeting a medal at the Junior World Cup next year after being named in the GB training squad for the tournament.

Webb said: "I suppose I've done quite well considering I nearly drowned the first time I tried it.

"I was messing about trying tricks and I flipped, but the lever was trapped inside the boat so I couldn't get back the right way up.

"Apparently I was knocked out but I don't remember. Thankfully someone was there to help me.

"I want to be the top junior in the world in the next four years and one of the top three at a senior World Cup sometime in the future."

Webb, who came 15th overall in his first GB international in Switzerland earlier this summer, also competes in the national men's league and is ranked 18th in Britain.

But the youngster is hoping for new sponsors to help fund two new boats to take him onto the next level.

Webb, who is gearing up for The Washburn men's race in Harrogate this Saturday, said: "I am hoping to raise £2,500 for two boats that would help me to perform with the best in the world next year - the Italians are so quick."

If you are interested in sponsoring Webb, email him on fwebb5@aol.com

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