Over the last few years I have got more and more into SUP, first for getting the hang of Surfing before progressing to a performance SUP surf board that performs really well in the waves but still catches everything! Then I moved onto using a SUP for general exploring, adventures and downwinders, but this weekend I started using my SUP as a form of transport, for which my new RED PADDLE CO 12’6 race board has made it all possible.
SUP really opens up a lot of possibilities, for both surfing and exploration you won’t really get it until you try it, but trust me it’s AWESOME. To learn more check out SUPboarder paddle board magazine which does a good job of showing what is possible on a SUP.
I’ve always liked the idea of a race board, but the size has put me off, however with the inflatable race board I can have a fast exploration board that I can take anywhere in its handy backpack, so if I go to the beach and the surfs not great I can just pump up the red air race and get some paddling time.
Sunday was a fun day for SUP in Plymouth – scoring sunshine and fun waves at Whitsand bay followed by a truly epic bacon and brie baguette at the cliff top café was enough to keep me smiling through this week back in the office, but it’s what I achieved after my surf that really made my weekend. Looking out to sea I suddenly thought of a cool Sunday evening challenge – maybe I should paddle board home from Whitsand across Plymouth sound and into the barbican to make the most of the amazing day…I quickly pumped up the red air 12’6 and set off home – hoping I would make it before dark.
The 12’6 cruised really well (considering its full of air) across the glassy water as the sun set, I grabbed a few pictures, but the I phone doesn’t really do it justice – an absolutely spectacular and peaceful journey home – beats queuing for the Torpoint ferry! I couldn’t really notice a difference in the 12’6 races performance vs. a hard race board, which I Was really pleased with.
Best part had to be paddling right into the heart of the barbican area, which was alive with loads of Sunday evening live music. I simply hopped onto the quay wall, rolled up my SUP put it in its amazing back pack and walked through town home.
To sum up, a great experience and now I’m planning some more adventures – perhaps Scilly islands by foot or cross to France and cruise the French canals…. Now, more than ever the possibilities are endless on your SUP!
Happy paddling.