At the time of writing , the last 2022 challenge lies ahead , The Great Glen , the fourth big paddle of the year . I am post- COVID and far from fit , but we will see .
Lessons
Go with the flow and meet some fantastic people .
Paddling is about mindset : challenges are achievable irrespective of age and , to a certain extent , ability . You need to train a little , work with your teams and your inner game . Most of all , harness your enthusiasm when the going gets challenging , paddle harder .
Volunteering is fantastic , and I have as much pleasure teaching someone to stand for the first time as I do from crossing a finishing line . Starting a SUP club has been a great privilege , and nothing could be better than a sundowner paddle with new and old members .
There are great opportunities everywhere . Training for the Trent or Broads has seen me paddle new stretches of canal in Wales and Shropshire that I never knew existed !
Ahead ?
I have only paddled on inflatable SUPs and feel slightly envious of hard boards .
Maybe with proper coaching to improve my stroke , at my age , with a podium place , and some respectable times , I will continue as I am .
I would love to explore Ireland , some of the inland waterways and Loughs , and the west coast .
Ultra Challenge overseas , maybe the 11 cities ?
I am teaching more beginners . I am passionate about opening up SUP to all . I look forward to teaching more people ( especially those less naturally inclined to give it a go ) to walk on water .
Here ’ s to what ’ s been and what ’ s coming .
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