editor’s note
A hell of a year…
here’s to the future!
It’s been a hell of a year. After a slower than anticipated start
to 2016’s UK summer of SUP – due mainly to colder than
expected windy weather – it finally kicked in and we were
delivered sublime, warm and sunny conditions for most of
high season. School holidays were a gift from the weather
gods with day after day of seemingly scorchio thermometer
readings enticing paddlers onto the brine.
Simply getting out afloat is still where it’s at, with inflatable
equipment the top of everyday paddlers’ wants and needs – this
doesn’t look like changing in 2017. For sure, there are the more
performance orientated ends of stand up – such as surf and race –
which still continue to attract growing numbers every year, but
recreation is where it’s at. In short the whole UK SUP scene is
looking peachy. As an all comers sport, which can be progressed in
any given direction chosen by riders, you can’t get much more
inclusive than stand up.
Ten years down the line, from SUP’s global beginnings, and we have
a fully-fledged industry, superstars of SUP and a whole plethora of
events and comps that are hugely popular. Here in Blighty, Wales,
Scotland and Ireland SUP is being pushed positively. It’s a unique
scene that has its own nuances and circumstances. We’re not
blessed with a tropical climate, and are very much beholden to
weather gods. That said we’ve developed and created stars of SUP in
their own right here on our doorstep, have our own bunch of unique
events, while remaining a part of the wider global SUP family. This
is such a positive thing and as we reflect on 2016, looking towards
2017’s kick off, the signs are for further growth, development and
improvements that will only benefit our domestic scene.
Here at SUPM we set out our stall initially with aims of focusing on
the UK’s paddling fraternity and industry – an ethos we still stand
by. From what was once a burgeoning ‘thing’ UK SUP has evolved
into an entirely different beast. One which stands tall, can hold its
own and will continue to grow stronger. 2017 is already in the
minds of some and its stand up paddle prospects are looking great.
Stay with us for the ride ahead - it’s going to be awesome!
Lastly…
Unfortunately this issue of SUPM is the last of 2016. But have no
fear, we’ll be back, fresh as a daisy, brimming with all you can eat
SUP goodness in 2017. The next few months will no doubt serve up
some amazing conditions on the water, while also providing
challenges for those choosing to tackle the off season for the first
time. We’re sure whatever type of SUP you indulge in between now
and spring will be fulfilling. If you have any ideas for articles, stories
or features – for either the web or mag – then let us know. We’re
always stoked to hear from you, help broadcast the diversity of the
sport and publish articles featuring your adventures.
For now, enjoy this issue, have a great autumn/winter and we’ll be
back in print/ezine format come the New Year. Stay tuned to the
website for even more cracking SUP articles during the interim. And
don’t forget to check out our brand new magazine – Windsurfing UK
– if you dabble with sail power. TTFN!!
Tez Plavenieks, October 2016
[email protected]
@tezwoz