# ShePaddles : Eleanor Addison ’ s journey into white water kayaking
# ShePaddles Ambassador Eleanor Addison tried kayaking for the first time at university two and a half years ago and hasn ’ t looked back since . From conquering rapids in the French Alps to paddling in Sydney Harbour and rafting on the world ’ s biggest commercial drop , Tutea Falls , paddling has taken Eleanor across the world . We caught up with her about her journey into white water kayaking and her tips for giving paddling a try . paddleuk . org . uk
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Tell us a bit about yourself .
Hi , I ’ m Eleanor , and I ’ m one of this year ’ s # ShePaddles Ambassadors . I ’ m 23 , from Halifax in West Yorkshire , and a Swansea University Canoe Club member .
How did you get into paddling ?
I started paddling at my university canoe club . After COVID , I wanted to make the most of my university experience and try new things . So , I joined Swansea University Canoe Club in my third year , having no idea what canoeing or paddling really was or what it entailed . I ’ ve now been paddling for two and a half years . I predominantly kayak , mainly white water , but I also play canoe polo .
Do you have any memorable kayaking trips ?
Every year , the university paddling community heads to the French Alps for summer . Last year , I went on a joint Swansea and Cardiff University trip to L ’ Argentière for two weeks of white water kayaking , camping , and socialising . All the university clubs tend to stay at the same campsite , creating a great atmosphere and really fostering the paddling community dynamic .
The water in the French Alps is amazing for paddling , ranging from grade 2 to grade 5 +. It ’ s crystal clear with some of the most stunning mountainous views . The only downside is the temperature of the water , as snowmelt makes it quite chilly if you happen to go in for a roll or swim .