Ed ’ s note
Onwards and upwards
I won ’ t dwell on the past – we ’ re all aware of how things have been . Instead spring ’ s on the way , summer soon after and a brighter outlook all round . It won ’ t be quite as simple as previously but all being well it ’ ll be a darn sight less gloomy . And SUP ( watersports in general actually ) are primed to help you make the most of what you ’ ve got on your own doorstep or locale . With a staycation season primed to return again having the toys to make the most of it are worthwhile investments – if you can .
Stand up paddlers have always been open minded sort . Right back pre- 2010 ( when I first started ), anyone dabbling with a paddle had a broader outlook of what else could be done ( myself included ) on the water . Other watery disciplines didn ’ t have the same mentality ( and naming no names still don ’ t ). These days the ‘ playing field ’ of brine offers even greater scope to all who accept it . With Mother Nature being a moody type it makes sense to possess ‘ tools ’ you can utilise whatever the weather chucks at you . I don ’ t think I need to point out that the UK ’ s conditions can ( and will ) change in a heartbeat .
The avenues for paddling your board are many - it doesn ’ t just have to be about flat water . But you can also add other ‘ bits ’ for additional watery fulfilment . Stick with a paddle if you wish , no probs . Utilise alternative means of propulsion when it ’ s breezy ( thereby making lighter work of a previously arduous task ) or bypass the water altogether and fly above it , in some cases still using a paddle , however . There are so many options and it ’ s no secret I make good use of all of them . The synergy of which may not appear obvious at first . Yet all these ways , proven and new , offer ability to ride and utilise a familiar concept ( at least as you initially launch ): standing on a platform ( read board ) atop water in case you missed that ...
This summer a whole host of weather scenarios will present themselves as you make all efforts to enjoy our green and pleasant land to the fullest . Understanding the ‘ tools ’ you have at your disposal , and how best to use them , will see maximum fun and time in the drink being enjoyed . With such options it makes sense to use as many as these pieces of equipment whenever and wherever you see fit .
With the above all said , however , THE most important thing this season is to have fun – as much as you can . It ’ s been lacking of late and long overdue .
Here at SUPM we ’ re picking up where we left off in 2020 but aiming to do even more . This issue ’ s crammed full of a wide spectrum of content that ’ ll hopefully get your juices flowing . I ’ d like to thank everyone who ’ s been involved : Pete and Anne , who I work with on the mag especially . Their efforts and behind the scenes work don ’ t go unnoticed . But also everyone else who ’ s contributed – some in more obvious ways than others – and been in touch with feedback and general big ups . Winter has been tricky and sometimes a supportive ( if virtual ) shoulder to cry on – both metaphorically and really – have been muchly appreciated . Thank you everyone !
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