🏄♂️ So… I Accidentally Became a Paddleboard Racer
A few years ago, just after the Covid pandemic, I was watching paddleboarders in Newquay Harbour from the shore, thinking, “Fair play, I need to give that a shot.” Fast forward to now—I’ve raced in open water, battled wind, and ended up part of a community I didn’t even know I needed.
This post isn’t about being fast or fearless. It’s about showing up, pushing yourself, learning and finding yourself surrounded by people who make you feel like you belong. If you’ve ever thought, “Could I actually do that?”—this is for you.
I started with loaned SUP equipment for my first race as part of RED Paddleboards Zero to Hero scheme; I had no clue what to expect and hoping that I wouldn’t fall in too many times. My first race was SUP12 run by Brendon Prince in Paignton. I turned up by myself, unsure if I belonged taking part in a race like this. I was shocked, people smiled, offered tips, and made space for me—literally and metaphorically.
My SUP12 Highlights (Will open a new Window)
Then came GBSUP Liverpool. A mixture of Docks and City buildings as a backdrop, an atmosphere full of energy and friendship. The courses that were to be raced felt both achievable and exciting for a beginner. It was my first time feeling part of a real race that was still accessible for beginners to participate in.
My GBSUP Liverpool Highlights (Will open a new Window)
GBSUP Whitley Bay pushed me further. Heavy shore dumps, big swell, open water, and wind that made me question my board choice, and why I’m doing this — but also the strongest feeling of camaraderie yet. That race taught me to stay strong and reminded me that speed isn’t everything. Just get out there and enjoy it.
It’s not about podium finishes. It’s about the people, the taking part, pushing yourself. You’ll meet people who’ve been racing for years and others who have start as well. Yet no matter what, everyone’s rooting for each other.
No egos, no cliquey nonsense—just a bunch of people cracking jokes, making pals, and honestly, the kind of support that kind of lingers, you know? Sure, things can get a little competitive, but at the end of the day, it’s mostly about folks coming together because, well, they like this stuff.
Here’s what helped me get started:
SUP12 was chilled. Liverpool was vibrant with energy. Whitley Bay tested me and my limits. But all these had one common thing: people who made me feel like I belonged.
Expect:
Here’s what I told myself—and what I now know:
Here’s how to get started:
If you need a paddle buddy or someone to laugh with when you fall in—I’m here.
