Editor
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Ed ’ s note
Bloodlines …
SUP isn ’ t just the sum of its assembled parts . As a member of the wider watersports world , SUP is simply another evolved way to enjoy the water , whether inland or coastal . You may just be focused on stand up currently . Still , the fact is without disciplines like outrigger canoeing , windsurfing , kayaking , kitesurfing , and so on , you wouldn ’ t have the standing and paddling opportunity you do now . Everything from hydrodynamic / aerodynamic understanding , equipment manufacturing techniques , watersports philosophy and so on stem from what ’ s gone before . That ’ s why there ’ s so much synergy with other watery activities , and the bridge between disciplines is smaller than you ’ d think ..
It ’ s also about the personalities and their performance on the water that have helped pave the way and bring SUP to where it ’ s at right now . For evidence of this , read up on the history of SUP , and you ’ ll see what I ’ m banging on about .
Two of those personalities are Steve and Mandy West . Being immersed in saltwater from right back in the day and progressing through the early years of windsurfing before arriving at paddle sports ( outrigger canoeing first and foremost ), the pair have been at the coalface all their lives – and continue to be so . Mandy has inspired many ladies ( and some men !) whilst Steve remains a go to oracle for paddle technique and historical knowledge for many .
His influence on board design ( via his work with Mistral ) is also tangible . It ’ s quite apt that Westy ’ s role as International Brand Manager also happens to be with one of the original watersports lifestyle brands . Mistral mightn ’ t be a household name to brand new SUPers , but their reach and influence is extensive and has been from way back when .
With the above in mind , you ’ ll find a large dollop of Mandy / Westy and Mistral related content in this issue – you ’ ll have no doubt spotted the mag ’ s cover . It is balanced , of course , with other articles . If you ’ re fancying a bit of learned reading , then the pair ’ s Q & A will enlighten , educate , signpost and perhaps influence .
Elsewhere you ’ ll find the usual SUPM broad mix of all things stand up paddleboarding to keep you amused between sessions and frothing for your next one . If inspiration , knowledge and SUP stoke ’ s what you ’ re after then , you come to the right place .
Enjoy this issue , stay safe on the water , have fun , and we ’ ll see you out there soon ! Tez Plavenieks – June 2021