Thanks to friend of VB, Eric Lawson, for sharing details of this great challenge taking place on Friday next week. Please do try and support the challenge if you can. In his own words. Ed
On 18th November, a group of Island Stand-Up Paddle boarders are making a seven mile journey from Yaverland to Ventnor to raise money for the BBC Children in Need appeal.
Aaran Williams who runs Earth Wind Water in Shanklin has linked up with Eric Lawson, who created SUPiow.co.uk, an online resource for SUP boarders visiting and living on the Isle of Wight.
They are both passionate about promoting SUP and thought combining a paddle with fundraising for Pudsey would be a good idea.
Ten SUP boarders taking part
A group of about ten experienced SUP boarders will start in Yaverland around 2pm and make the seven mile journey to Ventnor, arriving around 4:30pm.
If the wind is blowing the other way, then we go the other direction, starting around midday from Ventnor. We will post updates to SUPiow.co.uk and the Earth Wind Water Facebook page.
What is SUP?
Standup paddle boarding (also known as SUP) is an old sport, with its origins linked to Waikiki beach in Hawaii where the ancient Hawaiian tradition of surfing was resurrected in 1907.
With SUP boarding you essentially stand on a long surfboard (usually between 10 and 15 foot long) and a propel yourself using a paddle usually around 6 foot long. SUP can be enjoyed surfing on waves, paddling on calm ocean waters, lakes or rivers. Some enthusiasts even go fishing on them and some boards can double as a windsurfer. It’s great for fitness and is a very social sport.
Join us for the after-party fundraiser
The Spyglass Inn at Ventnor has kindly donated the use of the Boathouse room to hold our after-party fundraiser.
This starts at 7pm and will proceeded regardless of the outcome of the paddle. We will be running a raffle, collecting some more donations and we will also be screening a new Standup Paddle movie that covers the history of SUP, where it’s at today and some excellent footage from the 2010 SUP world tour.
It’s going to be quite informal, with drinks and food available from the extensive menu in the main bar. Entry is free but we will shake the collection bucket at you.
Projection screen needed
We are in need of a projection screen to show the film, so if any business or individual out there that has one and is able to lend it to us for the evening, please get in touch via Aaran on 01983 866269 or Eric through email at [email protected].
Donate online
You can also donate online now via our BT mydonate page.
Image: © Christian Brown
