11-year-old Len Liddle ’ s 100km SUP adventure
On June 29th , 11-year-old Len Liddell set off with his father , Duncan , on a 100-km paddleboarding challenge to raise money for Tumble Downs SEN Kids Club . They travelled down the River Wye from Glasbury to Ross on Wye in three days .
Duncan , can you tell us more about Len ?
Len is Autistic , has ADHD and OCD , and has always been open about his neurodiversity and why paddling is essential to him . By taking on and smashing this huge challenge , he has not only raised funds for a fantastic kids club but has shown that there are no limits to what a neurodivergent person can achieve in paddling . Paddleboarding should be embraced as an inclusive activity and sport for everyone ; its benefits on wellbeing and self-esteem are huge . I hope people who read Len ’ s story will be inspired to try it and that it sparks a wider conversation about how we can make it accessible for everyone to enjoy .
What impact has Len ’ s challenge had on the local community ?
Len has raised over £ 2,700 for Tumble Downs so they can continue their great work supporting children with additional needs in the Dudley area . Tumble Downs has played a huge part in Len ’ s life since he joined at the age of six . He had just been diagnosed with autism at the time , and the support he has received from Tumble Downs has been incredible . Len just wanted to give something back and help his friends .
What advice would you like to share with the paddling community ?
Don ’ t be afraid to try something ; where there is a will , there ’ s a way . It is fair to say that all of us who
paddle love our sport , so let ’ s help everyone enjoy its benefits . I was so worried and anxious about taking Len out for the first time , but the support from my paddling friends has enabled Len to have some fantastic memories out on the water . Paddling has become a huge part of his life , and he loves being out on the water ( or in it !). It is important for him to have this outlet as he finds many aspects of everyday life challenging .
Len , can you tell us what you love about paddleboarding and why it ’ s important to you ?
I have more freedom , and it is a mindful place to be . I get out with my friends and have a lot of fun . It is just a wonderful experience ! It helps me with my mental health , autism , and ADHD . It is just me communing with nature , and that means a lot to me . I can be me , and I love the white water ! It ’ s a magical experience .
How was Len ’ s Big Paddle Challenge ? What were the highs and lows ?
The highs were exploring a new river and knowing that I was helping others . The lows were tiredness and exhaustion , especially on day 2 , when those 28.5 miles were very , very tough !
You can read more about Len ’ s story on the Paddle UK website . https :// paddleuk . org . uk / paddleuk . org . uk
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