Where are Conor and Mick?
LD does not really require rough water experience. Once you're comfortable avoiding trees in slow-moving water, there's no danger to it. You should be comfortable swimming. Once you're comfortable swimming, don't swim. Then paddle for a couple of hours. It's 28.2km/17.6miles. Then get out and party like an animal. Be aware that you have to carry your boat for 500m. Use long non-tippy boat where possible.
Simon, I don't remember you getting off the water before you started drinking.
I would love to do the race but I already have me an ELECTRIC PICNIC ticket!!! YEAH!!
LD should really stop competing with this.