The BB trip down the Bann was a great success. 
It was windy, so instead of starting in Antrim and paddling across the North Shore of Lough Neagh the decision was made to start in Toome.  In one way I was disappointed because I've never paddled the whole way before, but it would have been a bit of a hairy ride.  There's places along that north shore where even in a canoe it's too shallow to paddle less than a mile out.  That means you're exposed, and it means the waves are big and close together.  Fun, but not with 20 inexperienced paddlers in tow.

So, with two paddlers much less experienced than the others, Evan and I split up and took one each just before we entered Lough Beg.  I had Ian, who is a rugby player.  That means he's ... larger than me.  and with the wind coming from the west across the lough, we were weathervaning the whole way. 

As Ian gained confidence and his technique improved, we were able to keep up with the rest of the group, and with both of us paddling on the windward side of the boat to counter the wind, we were able to work our way to the front.  As we paddled through the group I was pointing out the techniques of the other paddlers to Ian, so when we got to Newferry he was ready to try steering.

I didn't say too much, just kept a steady pace and encouraged him to feel what body, boat and paddle were doing.  He'd absorbed the earlier instruction, and before long was steering the boat with confidence.

first night we camped at Portna lock where there is a sheltered grassy area, toilets and a tap.