Black Project Synergy Tour: Paddle Testing at Covenham
Held at Covenham Sailing Club in Lincolnshire, Drift Boardsports hosted the Black Project Synergy Tour Demo Day, bringing together race and touring paddlers to test Black Project’s leading SUP paddle range in real-world conditions.
Real Testing in Real Conditions
After weeks of calm, warm weather, chilly winds gusted across Covenham Reservoir, tugging jackets tight and stirring anticipation. Inside the sailing club’s clubhouse, paddlers gathered, steaming mugs in hand, awaiting insights from Chris Freeman - founder of Black Project SUP. The atmosphere held a quiet buzz; the kind of calm before discovery.
Chris quickly set a reassuring tone, sharing not just technical expertise but also practical wisdom. He encouraged paddlers to trust what their bodies were telling them: If the paddle feels too long, too stiff, or too big - it's probably because it is. Trying paddles deliberately "wrong" for you, he explained, helps clarify exactly what's right.
Morning Session: Race Paddles on Test
The morning session focused on race paddles, featuring Black Project’s Hydro SynergyX, SprintX paddles. Paddlers experimented side by side, swapping paddles back and forth. They discovered first-hand how blade size, shaft stiffness, and paddle length directly affect performance and comfort - especially noticeable over longer distances or into headwinds. Conversations flowed effortlessly over the water as insights clicked and shared understandings grew.
Afternoon Session: Touring & Recreation
After lunch, a fresh group joined the afternoon session, dedicated to touring and recreational paddling, featuring Black Project's Hydro TempoX and Lava Paddles. Chris highlighted how selecting the right paddle isn’t only about efficiency; it's essential for protecting your body, reducing fatigue, and extending your enjoyment on the water. Participants quickly felt the difference, noticing improvements in posture, more natural movements, and less strain with each stroke.
Connection & Community
Throughout the day, chatter filled the air with comparisons and personal discoveries. Onshore, Chris added a playful twist with a "Win a Fin" competition, gifting away Black Project Ray and Tiger fins creatively decorated by attendees - each one becoming a personal memento of the day’s camaraderie.
Until Next Time
Days like this remind us why we paddle: to explore, learn, and connect. If you missed this event, Drift Boardsports and Black Project will offer future opportunities for you to find your perfect paddle.
If you're training for events or simply wanting to paddle further without strain, the right paddle genuinely matters. Until next time, stay curious about your stroke, your setup, and where this sport might take you.
