Words & photos: Dale Mears @standuppaddleukThis is a strange review as its for a board I shouldnt be able to ride! So, for this board, luckily, the owner, my daughter, was on hand.I contacted FatStick Boards earlier this year and said they should consider bringing out a kids board. After discussing sizes and features with me, Andy and Reuben decided to go for it.Now, we see a lot of kids on the fronts of boards, and at some point, they are ready to jump on their boards. Many kids are just being thrown on adult boards, which are oversized and not suitable. Fine for a splash on the lake, but if you want to get your kids into the sport, its essential to ensure they have the right kit and ensure little ones do not get any injuries from using oversized boards and paddles. You wouldnt put a child on an adults bike!So, coming in at 76, this board is much shorter than a good range of the kids boards available and your average SUP. The length and width were designed for young children to control the board, especially the width, as younger children cannot reach wider boards. As well as being relatively narrow but without compromising stability, the board has a smaller rail than most paddleboards. At 4, the board is lower to the water, offering a lower centre of gravity for young children.Opening the box, you get what you now expect from FatStick Boards: plastic-free packaging, board wrapped in paper and the other accessories are loose in the box, wrapped in paper.Now, this board didnt come with a complete set of accessories as it is a prototype board (only five were made in this run for testing), so the board was supplied with a childs paddle, short 46 flexi fin, and small leash (and QR waist belt). In the box is a flyer with a QR code linking to safety information, which is great to see.The design is the same as the FatStick Boards AirStick range but a smaller model. We had two boards to test and look at, both blue and pink versions. We kept the pink version. The graphics are pretty the traditional white board, with pink rails and a pink stringer with a slight pattern down the centre a good-looking timeless board, in my opinion.The paddle had a reasonably lightweight aluminium shaft shorter than those supplied with adult boards. We didnt use the paddle as my daughter has her own, and wanted to use that, which is understandable, but for anyone without a kids paddle, it is a suitable length and a smaller blade shape and size.The construction is similar to FatSticks AirStick range: a single-skin PVC drop stitch with a PVC stringer to stiffen the board. This construction is extremely well made and will easily take 18-20psi if required, but I only put in about 16/17 as my daughter is relatively light. I must admit I did have a little stand on the board, and although it was more like a submarine, it was stable and didnt flex much.Now, my test pilot is nearly six, standing at about 120cm, and could carry the board due to its reduced weight, as this is a single-skin board. Id say she was just stretching to reach the single grab handle in the centre of the board, but this will ease as she grows. Even when Dad stepped in to help, it was super light to carry alongside my board.The construction and attention to detail were excellent. There was no glue residue, and everything was aligned perfectly.FeaturesThe board comes with a D-link front top and rear for easy clipping, a single paddled grab handle, front bungees and an EVA deck pad, but it is nice to see the inclusion of a kick pad. On the bottom is a 2+1 fin set up, a US box fin (which is nice to see on a kids board), many being supplied with clip-in fins or short Flexi bonded centre fins. The US box fin allows so much more flexibility regarding fin selection as the child gets older. I loved that the board was supplied with a Flexi fin, as this is perfect for little ones and adds some protection for the fin box when they land on the beach or bank. Then, the two thruster fins (toe-in) are fixed bonded Flexi fins. There was a discussion about leaving these out, but they are convenient for those wanting to use the board to surf. Either way, this is an excellent set-up for kids.Bearing in mind, my daughter has paddled on the front of my board since she was 16 months old. She was straight on this board, and it was stable enough for her to get moving independently. She could comfortably manoeuvre the board and turn it to control her direction. She found paddling the board extremely easy once she got to grips with the paddle technique, as this is a lot different to the wide strokes she was used to making on the front of my board! She also found it easy to jump off and climb back on repeatedly.Within an hour, she was out with my dad and me, independently paddling alongside us, having the best time. There is so much to learn, but she loves the independence of her own board.If anyone is at this stage, Id highly recommend looking at a kids board, and this is a great board to do just that!Price: 199.00Info: https://fatstickboards.com/ collections/inflatable-sups-kayaks/products/kids-inflatable-paddle-board

Words: Jim MillerPhotos: As statedMany people have different interpretations of whitewater SUP. For some, it is touring; for some, it is big water; for some, it is technical rapids; and for a small minority, it is specifically surfing. However, surfing on a river can also take place on most river sections and is a regular form of enjoyment for all white water SUP paddlers.During this article, we will examine what river surfing is, why it is something we should pay attention to when out on the rivers, some tips and tricks that will help us, and the equipment worth consideration.What is river surfingIn a nutshell, river surfing is the ability to surf on a standing wave a standing wave is a wave that remains in its place on the river due to changes within the river this could be due to changes in the depth at that point, water running over obstacles, being re-circulated or sometimes even the width of the river changing in such a manner that it might form a wave. There are many similarities to surfing on the sea, but the wave does not move downriver; it stays in place. As such, surfing on a wave on the river is not always as uniform as the sea; the waves are choppy and variable, and one of the big luxuries is you can surf for a lot longer because the wave doesnt disappear unless the river levels change. One of the wonderful things about river surfing is that we have the capacity to move around the wave more easily than on the sea, and we can go left or right, varying our balance and techniques as required.Equipment:Firstly, there are three main things equipment-wise to consider when river surfing. These are as follows:The right type of board. There are many different boards on the market but when it comes to river surfing, you need to consider two main different things: the first is the length of the board, and the second is the front and rear rocker on the board. When surfing, the length of the board has a big impact; by the very nature of a longer board, it gives you more scope to move and likely have more of the board contacting the water, which improves your stability on the wave but is harder to play on and turn. A shorter board is more playful and easier to turn, but due to less of the board contacting the water, you, of course, have less balance and stability on the wave. It is worth playing about initially with boards that have both front and rear rocker by are on the 9-10ft range, but when you get good and want to spice things up and go for tricks you should look at shortening the length of the board.The right type of paddle. There are many different SUP paddles, but one of the main strokes we use when surfing is a low-brace support stroke. As such, a larger blade on the paddle will, by its nature, make for a much stronger brace and easier surf accordingly. So, if you are considering getting a surfing paddle, then look for one with a large blade.Ensuring your safety is paramount when river surfing. Its crucial to consider whether or not to wear any padding or protection. This is often overlooked, but its important to remember that falling off a SUP can be from a significant height into the water. River waves are often formed due to changes in the river bed, which could mean falling onto a shallower or rocky section. If youre unsure about the depth of the river, its worth considering knee/shin or upper leg padding to reduce the risk of impact.Tips for river surfingWhen river surfing, approaching the wave is one of the biggest things to consider, When you drop on from above, can you drift in sideways or on a rare occasion, you have to paddle up onto the wave from below, powering up the flow. In the best-case scenario, you can drift out of the eddy onto the wave. The trick to getting onto a wave is matching the speed of the water with the speed of your SUP. If you go too slow, you wont make it; if you go too quickly, you overcook it and get shot off the front or back of the wave.Once you have matched the speed of the wave, then you have to get the timing right to move your weight back on your SUP, ideally to have a foot on the kickpad. And another foot back from the centre of the board this lifts the nose of the board and ensures that you cant pearl the board. This has to be done with impeccable timing, as too early, and you are off the wave; too late, and your board pearls, and you go off the front of the board and are likely swimming. If you get this right, then you are now on the wave, and the fun begins!From here, you want to ensure that you utilise a stern/low brace the majority of the time to stay balanced and the occasional correctional stroke like a rudder at the back of the board simply to change the direction subtly from left to right to move across the wave but at the same time as doing this you need to get used to transferring weight around your feet utilising the toes, heels and inside/outside edges of your board to put pressure in the right places on a SUP.This feature is to give you a feeling of some of the techniques that help when surfing a wave, but it is by no means complete. Above all else, practice helps to make skills permanent, so we recommend getting out and having a practice!What is Grade 5 on a SUP like?When it comes to white water SUP, the majority of the people in the sport currently sit in and around the grade 2 bracket of white water. Few people progress above grade 3, but it is a very quickly growing discipline, and we can expect to see far more people paddling grade 3 over the coming years. Very few can SUP grade 4, and even fewer paddlers in the world can SUP grade 5! You can easily add a full grade to anything you paddle for SUP if you compare it to other sports. i.e. SUP on grade 5 is just as hard as kayaking grade 6!The very few people who can SUP grade 5 are almost entirely sponsored most are American, one is in the UK, and one or two are in Europe! There are three main reasons you do not see many people paddleboarding in and above grade 3 for one, swimming in these environments is serious and can be fatal. The sport is still relatively new, and elite athletes have yet to develop, so there is the mental factor. It is easy to fall off a SUP, and you are at the height in huge whitewater, so not being cautious of this would be foolish!The Upper GauleyBut the most likely contender for the current worlds hardest white water SUP done to date is the Upper Gauley in America. This river used to be grade 6 but has now been downgraded to 5 as equipment has developed. The Upper Gauley has been the site of many kayaking and rafting fatalities over the years, so even thinking of doing it on a SUP is crazy! But it has been done, and this year, three SUP boarders were doing it simultaneously. Almost nobody has attempted this, and trying to do this would be extremely dangerous!The river consists of many rapids at grade 5 or higher, numerous grade 4 rapids, both named and unnamed and many grade 3/3+ rapids that are not even mentionable. The most serious rapid is Iron Ring, which used to be grade 6 but has since been downgraded. A swim here would be unthinkable, and as such, it is not worth the risk on a SUP. All the other rapids have been paddled on a SUP, one way or another.In September of 2023, three Hala paddlers tackled the Upper Gauley portaging Iron Ring, but between them, all paddling the other rapids. Each rapid comes with its unique problems. For example, Initiation has a terminal siphon on the right. Insignificant has huge waves/holes that are almost impossible to see until you are in them, and then a swim is less than pleasant, to say the least!Iron curtain has undercuts you need to avoid and less than stable eddy lines. Pillow Rock has the room of doom and serious undercuts so, dont mess any of these up! Lost Paddle has huge undercuts, horrible rocks, big boils, and serious drowning potential. Tumblehome has serious siphons; Shipwreck has an undercut cave. The iron Ring has huge holes, sharp rocks, undercuts, risk of drowning, and incredibly hard lines on a SUP to make an unthinkable swim potential. Sweet Fall has a huge hole, undercut rocks, and a box canyon. Julies Juicer has a terminal hole; Woods Ferry has a horrible siphon have we put you off yet?Why would you SUP it?Each of these rapids has potential lines, and most give you time to avoid the difficulties if you mess up a tiny bit. But if you take the wrong line, it will be game over. So why would you SUP it? Because the river itself is one of the best sections of easily accessible white water anywhere in the world, there are normally huge numbers of people on the rocks nearby who could help with some issues, to push the realms of the sport itself, to be social or perhaps because it is there. Each persons reasons for attempting dangerous things are their own reasons. I love being on a SUP and not afraid to portage things if required, do not paddle if I feels adrenaline rushes of any sort and want to continue helping to develop the sport in whatever way I can. I was in the United States for two weeks when I paddled the Upper Gauley. Ive also paddled many other rivers and had the pleasure of having many highly experienced paddlers alongside me, as well as many different safety crafts and, on occasion, bank safety on some of the rapids.Amazing and terrifyingIn short, pushing the very realms of what is doable in any sport is both amazing and terrifying at the same time. There will always be people who do not think certain things should be done. While the majority of the community has been supportive of this trip, there have, of course, been people who have voiced negative feelings on the matter but pushing the sport is how it develops and progresses and how we develop and progress as paddlers as well and for me, anything to help the sport of SUP is a true pleasure.Will I go back? In future years, for sure! And I hope I can go back with even more experience and skills to stand for more of the features as, of course, I fell off on occasion!About Jim MillerI began my love for the outdoors nearly 30 years ago when being taken up mountains, onto rivers and to the sea as a child. I would regularly run ahead into the mountains, sit on a rock and admire the views and this helped me to develop a true passion for the outdoor environment.I regularly engage in all disciplines of paddlesports and have the privilege of being a national trainer for white water SUP and other disciplines as well as sitting on different discipline and technical committees. I am a provider in different SCA/BC awards which I deliver in canoe, kayak, SUP and rafts. I am currently on the Hala and Werner (System X) SUP teams for white water paddleboarding and love pushing the limits of what is possible. I am keen to share my passion and enjoyment with as many as possible and I love being on a SUP a huge smile just crosses my face. I hope to see you all on the water at some point!

Interview: Sarah Thornely of SUPjunkie. Photos: SUPjunkie, Dan Willmore, Andy Kettlewell/Pistyll Productions & Sarah Marshall I first met Dan at Paddlefest in 2018 when we had just launched SUPjunkie in one of my first interviews, I talked to him about aninspirational paddle he had just completed, raising money for Ashgrove School. Over the next few years, we got to know each other prettywell, both having a strong affiliation with the Water Skills Academy and, more recently, paddling together in Scotland. I thought it was time we had a chat!Hi Dan, can you tell us how you got into SUP and some of the highlights of your paddling journey?I started surfing quite late, in my mid-20s, which was my introduction to water sports outside of swimming. I was living in London and worked for the National Autistic Society.I remember thinking it would be incredible for the kids to try, as I had personally felt the benefits. I eventually moved abroad, living in the Alps and Cyprus for a couple of years, and spent much time on the hill or in the water. Eventually, we decided to settle in Wales.I started working at Ashgrove School, now Ysgol Y Deri (YYD) in Penarth, working with differently abled children, and because we were so close to the sea, I saw the opportunity to offer them a surf experience. This was how I started down the instructor route via ISA and SLSGB.I started SUP through a friend; like most people, it was something to do when it was flat. Again, I saw the opportunity to do something special for the kids at school and so set up more opportunities to get on the water. Over the years, working with the kids has been a life highlight, if I am honest.Through this desire to share the sport, I have had some amazing opportunities and experiences. Some of the highlights have been charity paddles. I paddled from The Mumbles, Swansea, to Cardiff in one go.I paddled unsupported the length of South Wales coastline (White Sands to Cardiff). Along with some other bits, we raised around 18,000 for the school to fund the water sports programme, which I am happy to say is still going.Becoming a WSA expedition guide was a huge highlight. I have been lucky enough to guide in the Western Highlands, see some incredible places, and work with some truly inspiring people.I believe I was among the first to paddle (on a SUP) the Nova Varos, Uvac Serbia, their national park. Last year, as part of a new trip for WSA, I went to Sweden to review a trip and had an incredible experience.Generally, whenever I get to paddle, I consider myself lucky. Its been a little tough to get out as much as I would like in the last couple of years, but I am working on changing that now.Do you do any other water sports?I recently started packrafting last year and have been lucky enough to have two friends, Jason and Marianne Taylor from Tirio, who are the two leading UK instructors as mentors. I was lucky enough to be invited on an expedition with Jason and some other friends, crossing Scotland last year, which was mind-blowing fun! I see this as a sport I would like to do much more of. It has huge potential for incredible adventures.I am also being led down the kayak pathway by the team at CIWW, so there are loads of opportunities for fun and learning. What is your favourite discipline of paddleboarding, and why?Thats a really difficult question. I suppose it depends on the time of year and conditions. I started SUP surfing and love it when I can get out. I am a bit fair weather these days and look for those perfect glassy days rather than going out in all conditions for eight-hour sessions.White water is a lot of fun. I have done a fair bit of guiding on expedition boards in terms of low-grade rapids as part of trips; however, I am getting into proper white water paddling, so watch this space. I have never been hugely outwardly competitive, so racing is something I have only dabbled with mixed results.I tend to gravitate towards adventure paddling. I love being out in new or familiar spaces. I would have to say this is my favourite part of SUP. Being out in nature and having that quiet interaction with the space around me.The most important thing is having fun so they will all take a top place at one point or another.Can you tell us more about your association with CIWW, both past and present?CIWW and Porthcawl Surf School were the first places to support YYDs water sports program. CIWW was one of the first places to offer SUP in the UK, so it was a great place to be as the sport was starting to grow. It was where I became an ASI instructor and eventually became part of the WSA in its early days. I started working as a freelance instructor and developed from there.I had other opportunities to train and deliver other activities during my time at the centre.Most recently, I have been back in a full-time capacity as a duty manager (DM) and leading SUP at the centre.How have things changed there since you were last at the centre, if at all?Like all centres, people come and go. I am still in touch with a few and still get to go and paddle with them now and then. The centre itself still offers a huge range of recreational and professional activities and training opportunities, of which I have had firsthand experience since taking on the DM role.What are your day-to-day duties in your new role?Its quite a varied role. There is the day-to-day stuff of running the centre: opening up, daily checks, staffing, etc. We will also still run sessions as it keeps us current, and getting out of the office is always nice. We offer lots of recreational qualifications and staff development training, which we will deliver as a DM team. CIWW is a Rescue 3 provider centre and delivers training to emergency services and other agencies working in and around swift water environments. Working here can vary from day to day.Have you had to brush up on specific skills/learn new skills for this new role?The last six months have been a huge learning curve for me. My first month here was spent completing the pathway to becoming a Rescue 3 SRT instructor. It was a great experience but physically tough going, but we had two great trainers, Mark and Chris. Its safe to say we were ruined come December!Other areas include learning the operational side of the flow rider and safety-critical areas in terms of equipment inspection. All in all, it was quite an intensive six months of training and assessment. Following the sad departure of the WSA, there will also be some time to move over to Paddle UK, but that will be an ongoing process.In terms of brushing up on skills, it has been a challenging couple of years with not a lot of opportunity to get out on the water. I am keen to dust off my skills, so I have been trying to paddle as much as I can.Can you also tell us the long-term plans for the white water centre and where it hopes to be in five years?The centre plans to continue delivering recreational and professional activities as it has always done to a high level.My personal goal for the centre is to make it the home of SUP in South Wales. I am keen to work with local clubs to develop grassroots paddling across the disciplines. I am also keen to offer more opportunities for training and adventure trips for paddlers looking to develop their skills and experience. Watch this space.What do you think the CIWW centre can bring to the wider audience in the UK and not just in Wales?Its a great place for all levels of paddlers to come and learn and play. For those looking to get into paddle sports, the centre is a good starting point. Its a safe, controlled environment, clean, and with access to the river, enclosed flat water, and the white water course. The staff are experienced and super enthusiastic andcan cater to all abilities. From here, people can build the confidence to explore other environments safely.Are there others at the centre that you would like to highlight for their various roles?We have an experienced team of instructors and trainers at CIWW. Matthew (Pod), Mark (Blinky), and Jon (JC) are all IRF trainer assessors and accomplished paddlers. We are a Rescue 3 training provider. The DM team is all trainers at different levels, so there is a wealth of knowledge to draw from.We know you have a regular group of paddleboarders at CIWW; what do you think the centre can offer stand-up paddleboarders, individually or as a club?The centre offers a safe, inclusive space for all paddlers to learn and enjoy the social aspects of paddling. Staff are always on hand to offer friendly advice, tricks, and tips.We have a water sports retailer on site (Get On The Water UK) that can offer demo kits for all types of water sports equipment (SUPs and kayaks), allowing customers to try out different equipment and get sound advice from experienced people.The centre has always championed opportunities to come and learn. We like to support our clubs in any way we can. In the past, we have supported free training with other organisations, and we plan to work with our local race club to try and get funding to support grassroots youth racing.Thank you, Dan! Having visited the CIWW centre many times, I can vouch for their professionalism and the fun they bring to SUP and other watersports. Please do visit them if you are in the area.Sarah PerkinsSarah Perkins helped set up a race training group at Cardiff International Whitewater here are her thoughts on the centre:A secret SUP training ground.As Cardiff SUP racers, we practically hit the jackpot with Cardiff International Whitewater (CIWW) on our doorstep. CIWW has been a game-changer since day one. When we first started training as a group, they surprised us by buying a fleet of six race boards talk about a supportive launch! The location is unbeatable. Need a quick after-work session? Grab a board and you can be on the water, paddling in minutes.

By Crispin Jones (Owner of Waterborn)Photos by Sarah Thornely (SUPJunkie)Now in its ninth year, SUP The Creek in Devon is a well-established, great SUP race, attracting competitors from all over the country and abroad, which typically bookends the UK race scene. We caught up with Crispin to find out how this year went.This years two-day event started at South Sands in Salcombe on Saturday, 26th October, with a tech race involving competitors taking on beach runs, buoy turns, tide, waves, and swell, as well as a stacked fleet of paddlers. Starting on the beach at the waters edge, awaiting the legendary Duck Horn to commence the race, the competitors charged out seaward for the first race turn before proceeding around the rest of the course, which could be double-checked on their competitors tea towels.Conditions were challenging with choppy, confused water from the wind and swell driven in from Fridays fading low-pressure system. Although some people took a dip in the sea, everyone was drenched in glorious October sunshine, and spirits were high. Thankfully, the sand Bar was producing some waves, which competent competitors soon used to their advantage, but those less used to waves could skirt around the breaking waves to continue the course towards Sunny Cove, then in towards North Sands, then back to complete their first lap in South Sands. Competitors run with their boards up the beach through the gated area and back out for laps two and three before finishing between the flags. During the first lap, our comms with the safety cover from Coast to Coast Water Safety soon had a few people needing escorting back to shore, which further cemented why I chose to work alongside this very professional team. Conditions were undoubtedly challenging, and huge credit goes to everyone who got out on the water and gave it their all; I witnessed plenty of grit and determination but, above all, lots of smiles. Once ashore, when the race had finished, everyone felt a huge sense of achievement. In the 14 category, Paul Simmons, Zoltan Erdelyi and Dave took to the Mens 14 podium. Annabel Page, Holly Pye and Marie Buchanan took the womens podiums.I hope that we have more Tech races across the UK that focus on a technical challenge. This will help raise the standard of our sport and help us understand and paddle safely on the sea.Distance racesSunday saw competitors take on an entirely different challenge with the distance races. Conditions were perfect, with light winds, clear blue skies and sunshine rivalling any summer day! Kingsbridge was putting on a show with a classic car rally and car boot sale setting up to make the most of the fantastic forecast and our armada of SUPs on the water; there was plenty for the half-term visitors and locals alike to see in our beautiful town. With a 1km / 6km / 12km and even a 3km (prone only) course, all abilities had something to enjoy and challenge themselves with over the weekend. The fleets set off towards the town for the first race marker, which becomes somewhat of a spectacle to behold for those watching as fleet after fleet descends on the upper marker before proceeding around their remaining course.It is encouraging to see more first-time event paddlers taking on SUP The Creek either in the leisure/challenge category with a more relaxed start line or for the first time in the Race Fleet. There were some great performances across the board, but in the 12km 14 category, Paul Simmons, Mark Salter and Denzil Williams podiumed for the Mens and mirroring their Tech race, Annabel Page, Holly Pye and Marie Buchanan climbed the steps again for the Women. Before any of the other fleets had finished, though, the Juniors well and truly beat them off the 1km course and finished well ahead of the others. We are proud to see a growing number of juniors enter.Waterborn Club locals George Stone and Fleur Everitt took the overall wins for the 1km in the boys and girls 10-14 fleet, and Darcy England finished first overall and first in the 15-17 age category.As a race director, it was so welcoming having the weather on my side for once, and the joy on everyones faces always makes the countless hours across the year worthwhile. A big thank you to our fantastic sponsors who help showcase our brilliant businesses in the area. A massive shoutout to everyone who helped volunteer over the weekend to help it run smoothly; it really couldnt go ahead without you all; a huge thank you to Sarah Thornely for stepping in at the last minute and covering our photography. And the biggest thank you to everyone who came down (or up, Cornwall lot) to paddle on our beautiful estuary and share in the stoke of SUP over the weekend.We hope to see more encouraged to try next year for our 10th anniversary of SUP The Creek.See you on the water!

Jump on for the last of the year! Discover Octobers SUPM issue 43 available nowPay by credit card with Stripe or Paypal. SUBSCRIBE HERE and receive your first issue of the full subscription of four magazines yearly starting with the current issue: October 2024 issue 43. CoachingQ&AsTravel and adventuresCompetitionPaddle UK featuresRegularsSUPM supports and gives airtime to the UK SUP scene 100%. And were the only mag that does.The latest October 2024 issue of SUP Mag UK in print is available to purchase now Digital edition available @ https://joom.ag/92udFeaturing a huge array of SUP stories from across the planet and the crme de la crme of UK stand up stories, its a must have read for anyone into the art of propelling themselves forward on a board with a paddle.Available to order now.Any questions? Give us a call on 01480 465081 we will be glad to help.

Paddling in North FinistereWords & photos: Helen TrehoretSUP Micro Adventures is one of the best parts of SUP. With the usual time constraints that we all face, it takes work to plan and execute a 10-day SUP expedition. This is why living and paddling in North Finistere is so unique; we can zip off for a quick micro-adventure at just a moments notice. The wind direction and tides are all we need to know. Grab a SUP board, tent, and sleeping bag, and we are ready. Moreover, you can choose your comfort level for these micro-adventures between extremely comfortable, comfortable, and bivouacking.https://maps.app.goo.gl/2ukeyTYaFRTerN9Z7Everybody has some link to France, but do you know Finistere, and how perfect is it for SUP Adventures? Let me guide you through the perfect adventure in North Finistere, which is adapted to three different comfort levels! This is the armchair guide to the perfect micro adventure in North Finistere.North Finistere, or as the locals call it, The Forgotten Coast. In an area of France that you have not heard about, there are no expensive ad campaigns, nor is it anything to do with the clothing brand. As the name suggests, North Finistere is at the end of the world. Untouched by the mass development that is dominant in the south, you can still find yourself alone on the sea, with only seals and kelp forests for company. They say it is like Cornwall 50 years ago.Lets zoom onto Lilia, Plouguerneau, and Pays des Abers. It is 40 km west of Roscoff and 20km north of Brest. Abers is the Breton word for river mouth, a name shared with its Welsh cousins. This is a land of a 1000 islands, with the island archipelago strutting out, protecting the land from the fiercest of storms. The islands vary in size, from being big enough to set up a military seaplane base to being only fit for basking seals and nesting birds.Journey 1: The charge of the lighthouse keeper!I take this journey with friends and family, and I want a bit more comfort! This journey starts at Lilia, the small seaside village. You glide out of the Bay de Kervenni on the high to mid tide to benefit from the ebb tide while having enough depth to glide effortlessly over the sea grass and seaweed in the bay before turning northeast to start tracking around the rocks and micro-islands where curious seals will often follow you. Following the ebbing tide, you can let yourself be taken effortlessly by the current, using your SUP paddle to guide your SUP board around hidden rocks and floating seaweed waiting to snag your fin. After only 2 km, you are rewarded with an arrival at Ile Vierge, Europes tallest stone lighthouse!This island is the site of an active lighthouse, though, like most these days, it is fully automated. However, this islands gem is the gite found behind the lighthouse. If you are a person who enjoys comfort, you can stay in the gite for the night (or two) and immerse yourself in living the life of a keeper. The accommodation is tastefully decorated to keep its identity, including traditional wooden closed beds. Moreover, the gite includes the ancient lighthouse, so you can watch the sunset after climbing all 250 steps! Make sure you dont forget the corkscrew!The outward journey ends with descending into the small dock area constructed for the lighthouse keepers. Turning west, you begin to navigate through an abundance of rocky islands before heading towards Stagadon. The other island has accommodation in the Archipelago. This is an area where you will need sharp eyes to spot the access points and practice your turns and SUP control.Journey 2: Stagadon:The charge of the sheep!After leaving Ile Vierge, you will be taken through narrow channels while gliding over pristine sea grass and kelp areas. All around you will be nesting birds and the shrill of birds calling each other. The locals (the local seals) will almost guide you if you get the tide right as you approach Stagadon; the sea floor changes from rocky to sand. At this point, the sea colour changes to a brilliant blue and green, and you would think you have landed in the Caribbean.The beach lies in the lee of the island, protecting you from the dominant westerly winds. The local Seventh-day evangelist owns the island. It is a cosy place to spend the night in relative comfort. The island has a minimum water supply collected from rainwater, and electricity is generated on the island. It is the ultimate eco-lodge!If your pockets are not deep enough to stretch to a night in the light housekeepers gite, then Stagadon is the island for you. On Stagadon, the famous Ouessant sheep were once farmed. The sheep are as temperamental as the winds that flow over these lands in the winter. But for now, the old farmhouse functions as a bothy for up to 25 people (plus a few sheep to help control the Machair).Exploring the Stagadon is a step back into island life. After a short walk, you can get comfortable in the bothy and even light the BBQ while enjoying the sunset.Once you have spent the night on the island, you break camp in the morning to paddle due south to skirt by Ile Wrach a second island with a smaller lighthouse.The abundance of lighthouses tells us that this is where you need to ensure your tides are right. A spring tide in this area completely changes the landscape, making it a current nightmare or, at low tide, a rocky, strewn, unnavigable landscape.Journey 3: Ile WrachThis is for the tough and cultured outdoorists! After completing the bay circuit, passing by Ile de Vierge and Stagadon, this option is to arrive on Ile Wrach at sunset and bivouac on the island. This is a protected area, so camping is not permitted, although small-scale bivouacking is tolerated.This is a historically interesting island. The area adjacent to the island was once a US seaplane base in World War I. The approach to the beach is lined with rocks, so its all about nailing that tide. After spending the night in the comfort of the Machair, heading off at high tide allows you to circumnavigate the island and glide over the oyster beds that litter this side of the Archipelago.Still, on high tide, you can squeeze between the islands, allowing you to complete the loop of the Archipelago! Afterwards, you can reward yourself with a glass of wine and a dozen fresh oysters!How to get to North Finistere. The nearest ferry is Roscoff, 30 km west of Pays des Abers. Turn right, and you will start your journey to Cornwall from 40 years ago!When is the best time to paddle? Any time from Easter to October. But get in tune with your tides and wind predictions to truly nail this circuit!Are you eager to try this loop? Visit www.barrachousup.com for your guide.

Jordan WylieThe Power of the Paddle Jordan Wylies StoryInterview: Jo MoseleyPhotos: Alfie Marsh waves and portrait. James May carrying boardHello and welcome to our new column, where I talk to paddleboarders about the positive impact of SUP on their mental health. Whilst we are not for one minute suggesting that SUP is a replacement for professional medical help, I hope that these stories will open up conversations around mens mental health and the benefits of being on the water. I am so grateful to Jordan for sharing his story. Please do get in touch if you would like to share yours: Instagram @jomoseley or thejoyofsuppodcast@gmail.comPlease tell us who you are and what you have done in paddleboarding.My name is Jordan Wylie. I am a former soldier who served in the British Army with the Kings Royal Hussars for ten years.After leaving the Army, I spent the last 14 years building a career in adventure. I try to do things I enjoy and which will have a positive impact on the world. I am committed to helping the next generation and am the National Ambassador for Army Cadets. I also volunteer with the Scouts and Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which gives me a great sense of purpose and fulfilment. Some people may also know me from TV, as I work on Channel 4s BAFTA-nominated Hunted and Celebrity Hunted.During COVID-19, I began paddleboarding on my local stretch of the Basingstoke Canal, which was really beneficial for my mental health.In July 2020, I embarked on a huge some might say crazy challenge called the Great British Paddle to become the first person to SUP around the coast of Great Britain. However, the expedition was halted after 149 days, 7 hours and 33 minutes and having covered 2377km. Nicola Sturgeon, the then First Minister of Scotland, announced that Scotland was going into a Level 5 lockdown, and we had to return home.At the time, it was a new world record for the longest journey on a paddleboard on the ocean. I am very happy to say that my good friend Brendon Prince went on to complete his circumnavigation of Great Britain in 2021. I couldnt be prouder of Brendon, his achievements and the work he does for water safety.While I didnt complete the journey, I accomplished the goal I set out to achieve building a school in Djibouti, a tiny country in the Horn of Africa. In doing so, I fulfilled a promise to a little boy five years before.Can you tell us a little about your mental health challenges?For the last few years, I have struggled with my mental health and was diagnosed with severe depression and chronic anxiety. People think my mental health struggles are a result of my time in the Army and the tours of Iraq and Northern Ireland, where I lost friends and witnessed some very distressing events. These times have certainly been challenging, and after being close to death on some occasions, I gained a real appreciation for life, and I now never take it for granted.However, after coming out of a ten-year relationship with the mother of my daughter, I reached some very dark moments and considered taking my own life. It was then that I received my diagnosis.How did SUP help?I have found the great outdoors to be very medicinal. I call it my Blue Therapy and find being in or on the water, on a board or boat, very tranquil. I feel I can reach that feeling of flow, where life is calmer, peaceful and magical.The Great British Paddle also gave me back a sense of purpose that I had lost after leaving the Army, where our real task was to protect and serve others.I wasnt very good at paddling on the ocean at first. I had massively underestimated the task at hand. It took me almost two weeks to be able to stand up!I was nave enough to start and stubborn enough to continue, and kept going. Even when cold, tired or injured, I felt good every day. Even on the toughest day, it felt magical. It was one of the best experiences of my life.SUP is a close-knit community. Did you find support there?Yes! I had wonderful help from incredible paddlers I met on the south coast, like Marie Buchanan, Sarah Thornely and Ginnie Betts, who taught me what to do. Without them, I wouldnt have gone on to cross the Irish Sea twice and paddle around Cape Wrath in winter.Can you share any lessons the Great British Paddle taught you?One lesson was that you must keep going sometimes, that might simply be one paddle stroke at a time or on land, one step at a time. Dig deep, keep learning, keep going. Adversity can create wisdom and strength. Just dont give up.Also, my TV work does give me a certain public profile. While I dont buy into the celebrity culture, I believe that if you have a platform, you are responsible for being accountable to others. I want to use mine to encourage, support, motivate and educate others and be a force for good in the world.Please tell us how to find you on socials/website:Instagram and Facebook: @mrjordanwylieWebsite: www.jordanwylie.orgBook about the Great British Paddle: The Power of the Paddle by Biteback Publishing Ltd www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/the-power-of-the-paddle

We dont know about you, but were always looking for new places to paddle and people to paddle with. Well, look no further than AquaPaddle.AquaPaddle events are similar to Parkrun. They are a free-timed 5km challenge on the water. They provide the opportunity for kayakers, canoeists, and stand up paddle boarders to get together on the water to have fun, enjoy nature, and improve skills, fitness, and wellbeing.These social paddles take place on weekends across the UK and are suitable for all crafts and abilities. There are 40 (and growing!) locations across the UK.Were really excited to share that affiliated club Stratford-upon-Avon Kayaks has joined the AquaPaddle family.In support of AquaPaddle, Paddle UK is committed to providing essential safety equipment and crew kits. Gregory van Heerden, Paddle UKs Recreational Programmes Lead, recently delivered waterproof radios and AquaPaddle flags to Ed Smart, Captain of AquaPaddle Stratford-upon-Avon, at Paddle UKs head office in Nottingham, ahead of their inaugural event on Sunday, 25th August 2024.The first Stratford-upon-Avon event was a resounding success, with a strong turnout. Ed Smart expressed his enthusiasm, stating, This has been a wonderful opportunity to bring together the paddlesport community in Stratford-upon-Avon while supporting the charitable work of AquaPaddle.He added, I encourage everyone who can, to get involved. A massive thank you to our crew from Stratford On Avon Kayaks (SOAK) and SUP Stratford for making this possible.Join the next Stratford-upon-Avon event: https://www.aquapaddle.org/locations/stratford-upon-avon or find an AquaPaddle near you: https://www.aquapaddle.org/locations

Lee Pooley, Director of Recreation & Development at Paddle UK, explains more about the organisations SUP plan, in its role as a national governing body. It follows the inaugural SUPERCHAMPS, a new stand up paddleboard (SUP) event in Torquay, in September.What is Paddle UKs SUP plan?The SUP plan has been devised with community engagement. We listened to stakeholders, and Paddle UK developed an 18-month plan. The plan includes everything we are aiming to deliver in that period of time. Its to cover a whole diverse audience, from people new to SUP through to international athletes. Its an ambitious plan but very much achievable.Whats in the plan?One set of information is around safety, ensuring we have appropriate evidence-based research to inform us with our safety messaging to stand up paddleboarders. How we work with manufacturers and retailers in terms of the point-of-sale messaging we want when people buy a SUP the safety information they should be receiving. Its all around that collaborative work with stakeholders and partners to have a more extensive reach and engagement to that wider community to ensure how great SUP is, but also the safety implications, simple things to follow, and simple safety rules.What opportunities are coming up?There are lots of things in the pipeline. Were working with the membership department to look at appropriate benefits and services specifically for stand up paddleboarders. I think thats an exciting time over the next 12 months. Also, it highlights the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of getting out to SUP and how accessible it is to engage with nature and the environment all of those aspects. So I think theres some great opportunities there.What about SUP athletes and events?We want to support SUP athletes in having clear competition pathways. Being able to support them and understand which competition events are available to them. Were doing that through our SUP race page on the Paddle UK website. A whole host of events are listed there. Were also incorporating a newsletter that theyll be able to engage with.Were exploring the possibility of hosting an ICF SUP, which I think is really exciting. Several locations are interested in the possibility of running an ICF (event), and what were looking at now is a feasibility study the costs and the appropriate venue thatll be able to host and stage a great World Cup event. They can be anywhere. There are great locations within the UK, inland and coastal. Recently, we hosted the SUP superchamps (in Torquay). We had SUP polo and sprints in the inner harbour because it enabled them to do that. We also had the open ocean where we did technical sprints and the 14km distance.Its a really exciting time, and we want to work with the community to fulfil this plan.Paddle UK SUP PlanPaddle UK, a national governing body for stand up paddleboard aims to:Raise the profile and awareness of associated benefits when SUP including relaxation, wellbeing, and natureContinue to work with the established SUP forums to ensure strong links with the wider audienceWork with identified influencers to reach and engage with the wider audienceSupport and have presence at identified SUP eventsProvide SUP paddlers with specific membership benefits and serviceExplore the opportunities to host an ICF SUP World CupDevelop and promote SUP safety advice, informed by research and insightEstablish criteria for SUP Events and Competitions offering high quality provision and clear competition pathwaysEstablish a SUP Race webpage to inform participants and competitors of up-and-coming SUP events, selection information and training opportunitiesWork in collaboration with manufacturers and retailers to produce point-of-sale safety messagingWork collaboratively to share SUP safety messaging advice through a network of stakeholdersDevelop our existing incident reporting system to help in developing shared understanding of incident trends.Continue to develop high quality SUP Qualifications and AwardsFor further information please contact SUP@con.paddleuk.co.uk

Sam Rutt recalls the success of the weekendPhotos: Antony Thornely (@supjunkie.uk)On the last weekend of September, Torbay hosted the SUPER Championships, bringing together paddlers from across the country for a range of SUP activities. Paddle UK is proud to have supported this thrilling festival of SUP racing and competitions.Fun, inclusive, well organised, exciting and bringing the SUP vibe alive were all statements that were used to describe the inaugural SUPER Championships in Torbay (27-29 September). The SUPER stands for SUP English Riviera, and the event was designed to be a fun, inclusive way to introduce racing. From absolute beginners up to watching international racers speed along the coast, it had something for everyone.On Friday, the fun kicked off with sprints and one design racing, where everyone competes on the same board. Racing was held in the sheltered inner harbour, providing everyone with calm, flat water to test their speeds. At the event HQ, stalls were set up with all manner of SUP products, from clothing to cleaning, so even if you werent taking part, you could enjoy wandering around the stalls.Saturday morning, we were greeted with the most stunning sunrise over the bay at Abbey Sands, where the sprints, technical, and distance races were taking place. There was some great competition in the sprints, with a 53-year-old fighting off the younger competitors, showing that SUP really is a sport for every age.The afternoon saw the fun move back to the inner harbour with SUP Polo. If youve never had the chance to watch this sport, it is highly entertaining. Teams of four go head-to-head in a battle of skill, speed, and who can fall most stylishly. It was great to see the people of Torbay surrounding the harbour walls, watching the action, and cheering everyone on.Participants then headed to event HQ, where Paddle UK, one of the main sponsors, shared with the audience its 18-month SUP Plan (https://paddleuk.org.uk/paddle-uk-to-support-inaugural-superchamps/) with Q&A afterwards. Then it was time to put on some dancing shoes and enjoy the music, and those who had energy left some dancing.Please find out more about the event on their official website here: https://superchampionships.com/