PADDLER 49
LOUISE ROYLE
My 2024 kicked off with a trip to Uganda where whenever my paddleboard wasn ’ t under my feet , it was under the feet , bum , or belly of a local kid who wanted to experience their local river in a fun and exciting way . Since returning from the Nile , I have spent a lot of time with Louise Royle . Some describe Louise as an inspiration and role model ; my views are no different . Mine and Louise ’ s friendship is a prime example of why white water paddleboarding is inclusive , diverse , and here to stay !
Two years ago , I met the legend that is Louise . Born in the Lake District , Louise is the mother of a sponsored kayaker . She ’ s a sponsored paddleboarder in her own right , and I ’ m sure she won ’ t mind anyone knowing ; she ’ s old enough to be my Granny . I , a 28-year-old male of mixed ethnicity , mean that the two of us are as wide as the diversity spectrum comes . While our passion for white water paddleboarding brought us together , our age , gender and cultural upbringing may play a significant role in how and why we enjoy white water .
I have an energetic and playful approach that lends to me surfing every possible wave , tailing in every enticing eddy line and attempting to run challenging rapids whenever possible . In comparison , Louise is more selective on rapids that intrigue her . She prides herself in carrying the world ’ s heaviest ‘ everything bag ’ and a buoyancy aid filled with homemade brownies . This means navigating a trip where we both feel we have accomplished our goals whilst still being able to support others can be full of challenges . Please keep reading for some examples of how and why two exceptionally different paddlers have formed a solid and successful paddling partnership .
PADDLE UK PERSONAL PERFORMANCE AWARD IN WHITE WATER SUP
In April this year , Louise and I teamed up to lead a white water paddleboard coaching week in Scotland with a small crew of intermediate paddleboarders . Louise appreciates planning and organisation and always has safety at the forefront of her coaching . I knew this would complement my technical skills and analytical coaching style . Together , we managed to sign off all the paddlers with a Paddle UK Personal Performance Award in White Water SUP and see long-term development in the personal and leadership skills of our friends who attended the coaching week .
A fantastic effort for all involved . Our dynamic duo style and range of skills lead to a super holistic and well-rounded week of coaching in grade 1 / 2 ( 3 ) white water . The following month , Louise and I paddled the infamous river Soca in Slovenia and met up with a group of 15 paddlers from around the world , who , in total , had ten different native languages . This meant our communication was limited between individuals , yet universal river signals , laughter and the passion for paddleboarding in white water successfully guided the team dynamic . This hit home about how white water SUP is a truly special sport to be a part of .
PADDLER 49