WE’RE AN ADVENTUROUS type, us Irish, and though we mightn’t always get the weather for the latest, greatest watersport, it shouldn’t deter anyone from having a go.
So says Paul at IrishSUP.ie. SUP stands for Stand Up Paddle Boarding and currently the world’s fastest growing watersport, if we are to believe what they say.
It involves standing on a large surf-like board and propelling oneself with a single blade paddle. It seems to be growing in Ireland at the moment having experienced a boom in the southern hemisphere.
“Is growth comes down to its ease,” says Paul. “This is a sport for everybody, young and old. Also it can be practised anywhere you have a body of water.”
SUP is easy to get set up with but there is a lot of techniques involved, especially when it comes down to paddling efficiently and effectively.
“As for it being dangerous, yes one can get themselves into a lot of trouble if they have not been taught simple basics around trip planning, risk assessments and self-rescue techniques.
“My advice is to get a lesson or two from an recognised SUP training school.”
One can do it anywhere there is water but Dublin has the biggest SUP community with active groups on the North Coast, in Co Sligo, Donegal, and down South in Co Cork and Kerry.
The initial set up cost for a decent board, paddle, leash, buoyancy aid, wetsuit etc…is around €2000.
That shouldn’t deter anyone as the benefits are huge.
“There are no limiting factors and that’s a major plus,” he continues. “A good school / instructor can help tailor a package or programme to suit almost every eventuality, this is why SUP is so popular and exploding around the world.
“Initial setup costs might be a barrier for some but there is more second hand equipment available now that before. Manufacturers are also now providing price equipment to get people started.”
Originally published at 0915