Paddle UK celebrates empowering weekend at Mersea Water Park with
# ShePaddles weekender
Paddle UK is proud to celebrate the success of the recent # ShePaddles Weekender, hosted at the newly relaunched Mersea Water Park in the East of England. The event brought together around 100 women for a weekend of paddlesports, wellbeing, and community connection. paddleuk. org. uk
Led by Director Rebecca Edwards, a # ShePaddles ambassador alumni, Mersea Water Park has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once facing an uncertain future, the former boating lake has now become a thriving community hub that champions inclusion and female participation in outdoor activities.
Over the weekend, participants enjoyed a wide range of sessions, including paddleboarding, kayaking, yoga, solstice celebrations, and a fun triathlon finale. The event was supported by an all-female team of instructors and volunteer coaches, many of whom were first introduced to paddlesports by Rebecca and have since become qualified instructors themselves. 56
The weekend not only offered a safe and supportive space for women to try new activities but also celebrated the strength and spirit of a growing paddlesport community. The energy and encouragement shared throughout the event left a lasting impact on both newcomers and experienced paddlers.
Mersea Water Park continues to offer women’ s only events, family sessions and junior activities year-round, supporting Paddle UK’ s mission to make paddlesports more accessible and inclusive for all.