Three SUP Events, One Epic Weekend
Sunday Morning: AquaPaddle Lincoln – 25 May 2025
Gusts whipped across the water as paddlers steadied themselves at the start line, anticipation clear in their eyes. Positioned at a new spot for me - the turn-point, 2.5km downriver - I could only hear the start over the radio. This was no easy paddle; today was about determination and technique. The long straight stretch challenged paddlers to stay composed before the winding bends tested their control in the wind.
Twenty-six paddlers faced the wind head-on, several debuting fresh setups - Starboard All Star Airline boards matched with Black Project paddles. The right gear mattered today, offering stability and precise strokes when conditions turned tricky. Despite challenging gusts, personal bests dropped, proving just how far the community’s skill and resilience have come.
Post-event, conversations flowed easily at Woodcocks pub - real stories of wind-battles, breakthroughs, and personal victories shared freely among friends. AquaPaddle never fails to remind us why this sport brings out the best in people.
Sunday Afternoon: Austen Fen Slipway Launch – 25 May 2025
Straight off the water at Lincoln, we headed east to Austen Fen. The atmosphere was electric - celebration mixed with genuine excitement - as Louth Navigation Trust, Covenham Sailing Club, and others welcomed paddlers to the official opening of the new slipway on the historic Louth Canal.
Over a century after closing to commercial traffic, the canal buzzed with paddleboards, kayaks, and curious newcomers. We joined the action, guiding first-timers through their first wobbly strokes and witnessing the joy as confidence grew with every paddle dip. This launch marked an important step forward, reconnecting paddlers to a seven-mile stretch of tranquil, easily accessible water. A true milestone, and something we were proud to support.
Monday: Drakeholes SUP Social Paddle – 26 May 2025
After a busy Sunday, Monday’s SUP Social was exactly the reset we needed. Launching from Drakeholes, our Covenham SUP Club paddlers set out along the leafy Chesterfield Canal towards Retford Worksop Boat Club.
This 10km route, sheltered by dense trees, created the ideal and picturesque environment for easy-paced paddling and good conversation. Moments like these are where community deepens - sharing tips, swapping kit insights, and simply enjoying the peace that comes from paddling together. Lunch at the boat club midway provided a relaxed opportunity to catch up, laugh, and reflect before paddling back refreshed.
Looking Forward
Three very different events - testing endurance, celebrating community achievements, and finding moments of quiet connection. Weekends like this fuel our passion for paddling and keep us motivated for whatever’s next.
Stay connected, keep exploring, and we'll catch you on the water again soon.
