8 year-old kayaker goes mega-viral as iconic attraction marks 40 years

A STUNNING display of skill, confidence and calm from an eight year-old kayaker has captured the imagination of paddlers and families across the world.

A short video of Seren Jones performing a technically demanding hand-roll — filmed by her father Paul – a director and instructor at Canolfan Tryweryn, the National White Water Centre in Frongoch, Gwynedd – has gone viral across multiple platforms, becoming a source of inspiration for youngsters everywhere.

Shared initially for the enjoyment of the wider watersports community, the clip – filmed during a Llangollen Canoe Club session at Plas Madoc pool – has now approached 3 million views on the Centre’s Facebook page alone.

On TikTok, where Paul – known as ‘PJ’ – uploaded it as his first-ever post, it is rapidly closing in on an extraordinary 10 million views.

Combined, the video has become a global talking point, drawing praise from experienced paddlers and families unfamiliar with the sport.

The hand-roll Seren performs requires calmness, strong technique and the ability to stay composed underwater – skills the Centre encourages for all youth and beginners planning on venturing into white-water.

Seren was under the supervision of Paul, an ex-competitive slalom canoeist and experienced raft guide, who said: “We’ve always encouraged her to enjoy the water safely and to progress at her own pace.

“Seeing her confidence grow has been amazing, and the support from around the world has been overwhelming. If this encourages more families to introduce their children to paddle-sports safely, that’s brilliant.”

Seren added: “I can’t believe so many people have watched it! People from different countries have said they want to try rolling too. It makes me really happy.”

Seren has grown up inside of the warm and inclusive North Wales kayak community nurtured by the Tryweryn, with her parents running the Sun Trevor, a pub favoured by local paddlers, outdoor enthusiasts and visitors alike. 

The viral moment comes at a significant time for Canolfan Tryweryn, as it celebrates 40 wet and wild years since it first opened in 1985.

One of North Wales’s most iconic adventure attractions, the Centre welcomes up to 40,000 visitors every year to the banks of the Afon Tryweryn.

A not-for-profit organisation, it has a core team of year-round staff supported by seasonal and freelance instructors, many of whom have developed their white-water expertise within the region’s close-knit outdoor community.

Alongside public rafting sessions, especially popular during the warmer months, the Centre is increasingly attracting corporate clients for team-building activities, as well as groups such as stag and hen parties. It has also earned praise for its commitment to inclusivity, particularly in supporting disabled visitors and ensuring adventure is accessible for all.

Interest in the Centre is at an all-time high, with demand already strong for its white-water rafting gift vouchers – a popular Christmas present that allows recipients to make exciting plans and look forward to next summer.

Sessions such as the Safari Rafting experience are especially suited to young people aged 10 and above.

A dedicated page featuring Seren’s viral clip and background information is available at:
www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk/seren-s-hand-rolling-challenge or you can watch the video here: Facebook.  

For more information, visit Canolfan Tryweryn, National White Water Centre, North Wales, UK and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Alternatively, email info@nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk, or call 01678 521083. 

PIC CREDIT PETER ASTLES.