Alde River Challenge

The Alde River Challenge (ARC) involves participants navigating between the three “villages” of Slaughden, Orford and Snape without using mechanised transport, finishing where they started and taking refreshment in each village.

It has been devised to promote activity on and around the Rivers Alde and Ore, to encourage navigation and seamanship on the river and to provide a new activity at AYC – suitable for non-sailors or sailors.

It is open to participants to interpret and complete in their own way, taking full responsibility for themselves, their actions and their safety.  It is a challenge – not a race or a date/time specific event.

The ‘Rules’ are simple:

Pre-register your attempt with AYC – the entry form is on the website and email to challenge@aldeburghyc.org.uk.  You can do the whole challenge yourself or split it into a ‘relay’ with friends.

• Start at Slaughden village (AYC)
• Go to Orford, have a drink, 
• Go to Snape, have a drink, (or vice versa)
• Return to finish at Slaughden (AYC) for celebratory refreshments. 
• No engines or motors can be used by participants. (NB any support backup can be motorised)
• A combination of any of sailing, rowing, swimming, canoeing, paddle boarding, running, walking, cycling, kitesurfing or windsurfing could be used. And others we have yet to think of….
• Start whenever you like, take whatever route you like (not across private land), choose your own refreshment drinks (take them with you if you prefer – water/soft drinks are fine), be considerate to others, follow the Countryside Code and behave in a seamanlike manner on the water.
• Keep a (brief) log and take photos/ video footage.  To be submitted to AYC within 14 days of completion.  

AYC will maintain a ‘roll of honour’ of successful participants and may publish logs, photos, and videos.  NB Solo attempts without support will not be recognised.  All 2021 attempts must be completed between 28th March and 30thOctober.

Participants may need to plan and prepare their attempt carefully, including any back up/support they need.

 If you use social media post your efforts on Facebook and/or Instagram using the hashtag #alderiverchallenge #aldeburghyachtclub #funonthealde.

The Alde River Challenge Registration Form 2021 final.pdf

Details of successful attempts during 2020 and the Roll of Honour can be seen HERE.