'Kingston Aquatic Sports Academy, is not just about competitions and medals, it is also about 'Changing Lives Through Sport', providing opportunities for learning and work, improving the environment and improving the tourist experience in Kingston...' Leon McNeil, President of the new Jamaican Kayak and Canoe Federation

This is the vision giving Tony Greyson-Newman the inspiration and drive to attempt to kayak 14 of Jamaica's rivers in 7 days, to raise money for Kingston Aquatic Sports Academy. It will be the first of its kind on the island and offer competition kayaking and canoeing to start with. The plan is to create other clubs on Jamaica's rivers, partner with international clubs across the world and expand the activities offered.

The event comes with challenges, beyond endurance and skill. Tony was especially concerned about the crocodile presence in 7 of the 14 locations but has received very reassuring guidance and support from Jamaica's National Environmental Planning Agency (NEPA) and others to the extent that he is more concerned about the welfare of the crocodiles!

The rivers Tony is attempting to navigate are;

Rio Cobre, St.Catherine
Milk River, Clarendon
Alligator Pond, Manchester
Black River, St Elizabeth
7 Mile Beach, Westmorland
Cabaritta River, Westmorland
Salt Creek, Hanover
Great River, St.James
Martha Brae, Trelawny
White Water, St. Ann
Rio Nuevo, St Mary
Rio Grand, Portland
Plantain Garden, St.Thomas
Kingston Harbour, Kingston and St.Andrew

The money raised will help pay for the lease and renovation of premises and buy:

9 kayaks,
1 canoe,
10 paddles,
10 buoyancy aids,
2 kayak machines,

This is to introduce schools and communities to competitive kayaking and canoeing.

The Jamaican Kayak and Canoe Federation is also planning a river race, later on in the year, on one of the rivers Tony feels is appropriate and participants of all abilities in Jamaica and abroad will be invited to take part.