The Paddler Magazine Issue 77 Early Summer 2024 | Page 64

Meg Eynon

# ShePaddles Ambassador

# ShePaddles Ambassador Meg Eynon has been kayaking for just over three years now . She went from never having stepped foot in a boat to gaining qualifications in white water kayaking . Read all about her journey and see how you can give it a try yourself . Photos : Kay Powel . paddleuk . org . uk
Tell us a bit about yourself . Hi , I ’ m Meg . I live in Cardiff , South Wales , and I ’ m a member of Cardiff Canoe Club . I ’ ve been paddling for three years . From never stepping foot in a boat to gaining qualifications in paddlesports , my paddling has developed greatly . I now paddle at least weekly , whether it ’ s in the pool , the river , or Cardiff International White Water Centre ( CIWW ). To say I ’ ve caught the bug is an understatement !
How did you get into white water kayaking ? I got into white water kayaking after a birthday present from my partner to undertake the ‘ zero to hero ’ course at CIWW . This aims to get you down the white water course within two days . I did this and was terrified of it ! Joining a club allowed me to build confidence and paddling skills in a safe and friendly environment . They also gave me the opportunity to get out on the river weekly , which captured my love of white water paddling . 64
Do you have any memorable kayaking trips ? The # ShePaddles Cymru Summer Celebration last summer was the favourite weekend I ’ ve ever had on the river . Being surrounded by like-minded , supportive women who share the same passion is something special . The whole weekend will forever be memorable , from the incredible coaches to all the women who attended ; everyone was so supportive and built confidence no matter what your ability was . My paddling improved so much , and I even found ( and then bought ) a new white water kayak !