Mo Farah takes to the water for Join In campaign (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Mo Farah takes to the water in Barnes

12:55pm Wednesday 22nd August 2012 in News By Theo Watt

Double Olympic gold medallist Mo Farah joined slalom canoeist David Florence for a day at the Barnes Bridge Ladies Rowing Club on Sunday.

The pair was there for the nationwide Join In campaign, which encourages communities to take part at their local sporting clubs.

Those who attended got the chance to learn the basics of rowing and test their talent on the water.

The weekend saw clubs up and down the country host a number of events as the campaign’s battle bus toured the country.

Sports stars Daley Thompson, Sharron Davies and Jonathan Edwards took to the bus which has toured 5,000 Olympic inspired events so far.

The bus has travelled all over the country and encouraged local communities to join in the fun in their area.

Farah, a former St Mary’s University student who grew up in Isleworth, said: “I’ve had so much fun, I’ve never been in a canoe before, but give it a few more years and maybe I’ll attempt to qualify.”

Farah, with his two gold medals firmly around his neck, spoke of the importance of ,the scheme in creating new Olympic champions and keeping clubs open.

The campaign opens doors to sports that some may have never tried but may find they have an undiscovered talent for.

The scheme is backed by Team GB medal winners old and new, the Duke of Cambridge, the Prime Minister and Lord Coe.

Organisers championing the scheme said: “It’s a golden opportunity to capture enthusiasm for local sport that the Olympic and Paralympic Games will generate.”

The day of boating was followed by an award ceremony where members of the club were commended.

If you are interested in becoming a part of Barnes Ladies Rowing Club call 07825 355737 or visit bblrc.co.uk.