PADDLER 26
PADDLER 26
Name one thing we can do as paddlers to improve our rivers and their environment . Keeping our rivers and waterways clean . There are so many ways in which we can help with this : l River clean-ups . If that is picking up some rubbish you see or joining an organised clean-up such as Dee Valley Clean up . l Trimming any branches or trees that may be impacting the safety of river users l Washing kit before and after use so we don ’ t contaminate different areas l Make yourself aware of any invasive species that might exist and ways you can help to reduce them .
But most of all , just being all-round stewards and role models for how we want our special places to be treated . As paddlers , we should be the people who are improving and campaigning in these areas .
Which brands do you work with , and how do they specifically help you ? Brands I work with : Pyranha Kayaks . Making the best boats on the market and staying true to its For Enthusiasts By Enthusiasts moto . It ’ s important that I have a range of boats that are reactive and fit me . Pyranha does this .
NRS . Look Good . Feel Good . NRS provides a range of kit that fit my body well , look great , and are well thought out . It keeps me dry and keeps me safe .
Surfears . Provides me with quality earplugs that keeps the water out and let sound in . Keeping my ears healthy .
Finally , where do you see your paddling going next year and why ? Where I see my kayaking going in the next year is number 1 to continue to enjoy it and have fun ! It ’ s my happy place ! I ’ ve got a few things in mind for the next year ; l Spend more time learning some freestyle . l To be a more confident paddler on sections such
l as the Fairy Glen Continue to push myself and expand my comfort zones on rivers . l Work on believing in myself and that head game . l To tick off some new rivers and areas to explore .
Any final shout-outs ? Love and thanks to my partner Aaron Kendall , who I get to share my kayaking with and who helped me take that next step in my white water kayaking . My mum , Bev Davies , and dad , Jonathan Davies , for bringing me up in the way they did , making everything as accessible as possible for me . Of course , not forgetting top dog Tilly for all the best dog walks ( check out her Instagram account ) and chasing me down rivers . Supporters and sponsors , NRS , for providing me with the good keeping me warm and dry on the water and kit that fits me and that I love ! Pyranha helping me stay on the water and getting the chance to represent them as a whole and at events . Surfears for helping me keep my ear and hearing healthy .
Quickfire questions :
Do you have a mentor ? Aaron Kendall .
Are you a bathroom / shower singer , and if so , what do you sing ? Yes , I am , Whatever the Spotify DJ has put on .
An ideal night out for you is ? Kayaking .
What one luxury item would you take with you on a desert island ? Music .
What would you prepare for us if we came to your house for dinner ? Steak and potatoes .
What ’ s in your fridge right now ? Beer , Steak and vegetables , juice .
What is your favourite sports team ? I don ’ t really follow any team sports . Ross Edgley would be my favourite sportsperson .
Who are your kayaking buddies ? Too many to list !
What three words would you use to describe you ? Fun , loving , happy .
If you could be a wild animal – what would it be ? Otter .
Aberglaslyn ( Photo Aaron Kendall )