Reframing expectations
I ’ d entered the GB SUP National Sprint Championships in early September , but with bags packed and ready for an early start , I had a niggling feeling that it wasn ’ t the right thing to do . My body wasn ’ t used to high-intensity bursts , and being circa four months pregnant , now was not the time to try .
Instead , I set my sights on what was within my scope : the CIWW festival that was rescheduled to late September . This was my last GB SUP race before the baby ’ s arrival – I placed a strong fourth , despite paddling with caution , as I was intent on not falling into the murky waters of the river Taff with a baby on board . Post-race , I made it my goal for Cardiff to be my first back on May 1st , 2022 .
I did the odd club race to help me remain connected to the SUP community and keep my hand in with racing , and with my growing bump , I had to race more tactically and paddle within my limits ; by doing this , I podiumed at 7.5 months pregnant , proving that being pregnant requires a different approach .
Proud to be back
Millie arrived safely on 15th March 2022 . Six weeks later , on the 1st May 2022 , I achieved my goal to be on the start line at Cardiff and placed sixth lady against some talented paddlers . I was off the pace , but for me , it
“ I knew that the return to form and fitness was possible ; it was more a question of how the logistics would work – after all , with two-under-two , it would inevitably be a juggling act .”
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