Local businessman Chris Allix, founder and director of Dominion Marine Corporate Services Limited, is participating in the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race over the Easter weekend. Over 600 kayakers in 334 boats are expected to set out from Devizes for the 125 mile endurance challenge to Westminster, which includes 77 locks.

Chris Allix and Rachel Smith, Isle of Man resident and teacher, will be participating as a two person team in the non-stop straight through race which starts on Easter Saturday.

Chris told us:

“This is the 6th time I have done this race, the first time was when I was 18, but this is the first time I have done it non-stop. Rachel has never done it before. We will be working as a pair to complete it using a carbon SKUK Triton.

We are taking on this challenge to raise money for a charity that supports parents of those with Down’s Syndrome, and works to raise awareness and change perceptions. We both have relatives with Down’s Syndrome so it is a cause that is dear to our hearts.”

The charity is called Twincess, set up by parents Matt and Jodi who have identical twins born with Down’s Syndrome in 2011. They work tirelessly to change people’s misconceptions and increase understanding of the condition.

Chris, who celebrated his 60th birthday whilst paddling solo from the Isle of Man to Monaco in September 2012, told us he is not phased by the gruelling task ahead:

“We have been preparing for the race with Island based instructor Keirron Tastagh of Adventurous Experiences. We will be supported during the event by Keirron as well as my partner Catherine and sister Clare. We are all looking forward to it.”

If you would like to support Chris and Rachel to raise money for Twincess please go to their account on Virgin’s moneygiving (http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Dw35 ). All of the funds go directly to the charity.

Photo -  Rachel Smith and Chris Allix training for the Devizes to Westminster canoe race (image courtesy of Keirron Tastagh of Adventurous Experiences).