🏄♂️ 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.
🌊 My First Race: Chaos, Kindness, and a lot of Falling Off
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.
My GBSUP The Big Dippa Highlights (Will open a new Window)
🤝 Why SUP Racing Feels Different
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.
🛶 Thinking of Giving It a Go?
Here’s what helped me get started:
- Board & Paddle: Needs to be stable and forgiving. Borrow one if you can.
- Gear: Leash, PFD, Gloves, and clothes you don’t mind getting soaked, as well as a change for when finished.
- Costs: You don’t need top-tier gear. Second-hand gear is more than adequate. Accommodation, Travel, Food and entry costs.
- Training: Start on calm water. Focus on balance, paddle technique and getting comfortable on your board for periods up to an hour. When you become comfy and if close enough, move onto Open Water, as this is a completely different sensation to enclosed water.
🏁 What to Expect at Your First Event
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:
- A variety of paddlers—some fast, some just figuring it out
- Clear briefings and marshals who genuinely want you to succeed
- Post-race chats that feel like mini reunions
- A finish line that means more than you expect
😬 Worried You’re Not “Ready”?
Here’s what I told myself—and what I now know:
- “I’m not fast enough” → Doesn’t matter. You’re racing yourself.
- “I’ve never paddled in the sea” → Start small. Plenty of races are inland.
- “I don’t know anyone” → You will. SUP people are ridiculously friendly.
- “I’ll look silly” → This does not matter as you will have a laugh doing it. Everyone has started here before.
🚀 Fancy Giving It a Go?
Here’s how to get started:
- Find a local club: Paddle UK is a good place to start.
- Try a beginner-friendly race: SUP12 is ideal.
- Connect online: Facebook, Instagram, local paddlers—ask questions, no matter how stupid you think they are.
- Set a goal: This just needs to be something that gets you on the water. Have a look at Aqua paddle and see if one of these is near you.
If you need a paddle buddy or someone to laugh with when you fall in—I’m here.
