editor’s note
Baby on board
It’s been an unprecedented year – in more ways than
one. After the ferocious storms of winter, UK summer
2014 has been simply sublime – especially for a float.
At SUP Mag UK HQ I counted 10 weeks of light wind,
rising temperatures and more stand ups than you can
swing a paddle at. Every time I ventured to the beach
new recruits were on the brine, sweeping away in the
sunshine – a great sight.
Then along came Molly. My beautiful baby girl was born
July 13 and our whole world changed. When you’re
expecting, friends, family and anyone within earshot are
keen to drum in how life will alter; and sure enough it
does. Gone are those four hour surfing stints or all day
downwind missions. Instead shorter sessions and quick
dips become the norm; between nappy changes,
screaming abdabs and feeds. Contrary to popular belief,
your paddling doesn’t have to stop all together – change
yes, but not stop.
Gazing at my daughter, hopes and fears flood my head
space. Although I’d be over the moon if she followed in
mom and dad’s footsteps, and became a fully fledged
water baby, I wouldn’t ever force the issue. All the wife and
I can do is exposure her to the ocean, make sure she has
fun and hopefully the rest will follow.
Gazing round this year’s National Watersports Festival it
struck me the majority of watery disciplines in the UK are
practiced by 30+ year old testosterone infused men. For
various reasons, financial or otherwise, it’s a dominating
demographic. This isn’t a bad thing per se but it’d be a
shame if SUP got stuck in a rut with a lack of new blood.
For any sport to thrive there needs to be the development
and nurturing of youth (girls and boys) participation. As
the supposed world’s fastest growing watersport SUP
should be encouraging kids to wield a blade. I appreciate
we have the weather against us, as well as ever changing
on water conditions, but where there’s a will there’s surely
a way?
So long 2014 – it’s been
emotional!
SUP Mag UK has had fantastic support this year with loads
of positivity and good vibes from readers and industry
types alike. As we put the third and final issue of 2014 to
bed we reflect on what’s been a fantastic journey – Pete,
Anne and I are super stoked about what we’ve managed
to achieve, we hope you are too.
With winter swells and winds on the way, we’re already
laying foundations for next year so watch this space as
SUP Mag UK will be back in 2015. In the meantime stay
tuned to our social media streams for all that essential UK
SUP goodness. Thank you and good night!
Photo: Dale Mears Photography
www.flickr.com/people/dalemears/
Stormtrooper: www.ainsworthpaddles.co.uk
Tez Plavenieks, September 2014
[email protected]
@tezwoz