With a summer of SUP paddling now behind us it is time to reflect on the achievements of the county’s SUPer paddlers. 
Orchestrated by one of the authorities finest names in SUP coaching – Steven Nelson – a summer coaching series has resulted in the following awarded through the Academy of Surfing Instructors
- One fully qualified Level 2 Exposed Waters Instructor
- One fully qualified Level 1 Enclosed Water Instructor
- Eight (8) Level 1 Enclosed Water Paddler Certification following a 10 week course.
The 10 week course from June to October took place on Musselburgh Lagoons along with the fantastic sunshine that East Lothian often has to endure. For many of the paddlers it was their first experience of any watersport and their progression was a joy to behold. Many are now looking to continue their SUP journey by progressing onto Level 2 and attempting to set up a weekly SUP club. Some thoughts from the paddlers:
“…amazed at how quickly – with the help of Rab – I was able to be up and paddling,”
“…looking forward to continuing with this sport and would be delighted to be able to go further and become an SUP instructor myself”
“…originally thought that this activity would just be for me – but now looking into how to embed SUP into my work with young people within the council”
The two coaches who assisted Steve were gaining their requisite hours within an approved SUP school. The knowledge that was shared by the three coaches gave all participants a chance to experience a range of coaching styles and teaching techniques.
In some beautiful October sunshine all the paddlers took their skills and used them in a guided circumnavigation of the island of Fidra off the beautiful East Lothian coastline.
For information on next summer’s SUP courses – please get in touch with Martyn at Outdoor Learning – mpegg@elcschool.org.uk