The Carmathen Coracle and Netsmens Association were delighted to welcome Society members Brian and Jane Pearce to the River Towy. Joe Woodhead won the Novice trophy, donated to the Camarthen River Festival by the Society.

Article below by Carmarthen Journal

The annual event on the quayside was this year run by Carmarthen Boat Club, Gwendraeth Valley Paddlers and Carmarthen Coracle and Netsmen Association.

The day was filled with trills, spills and soggy cardboard boxes adding to the fun. It kicked off with a canoeing try-out session and was followed by the cardboard box challenge, which saw around 10 homemade crafts take to the water. Among them was event champion — Llangunnor community councillor Dave Watson — whose "cardboat" vessel sank almost as soon as it hit the water,  managing just 5ft.

Peter Elliot, who came dressed as a funeral director, won the challenge in his hand-made coffin. It was followed by the raft race which was won by Carmarthenshire Youth Services, ahead of a team from the Parrot Music Bar and Cafe.

Next up were the coraclers, with experienced and novices taking part in races on the river. The winners were: Relay race - Joe Woodhead and Malcolm Rees, King of the Towy Mayor's Cup - Malcolm Rees and novice trophy - Joe Woodhead.

Jenny Fox, who was on hand to help out at the event, said organisers were pleased with the day. "We were really happy with the way it went," she said. "It was the first year without funding and it has been taken on by the Carmarthen Coracle and Netsmen Association, Gwendraeth Valley Paddlers and Carmarthen Boat Club. These are three community groups who have done really well in their first year. Hopefully the event will grow in future years."