First ever #ShePaddles Cymru Open Water SUP Race

The FBOR’22 #ShePaddles Cymru SUP Race is a new initiative from Canoe Wales and the FBOR'22 team, aimed at encouraging less experienced paddlers to participate in a fun but challenging sea race. It was geared to build confidence towards more advanced coastal SUP paddling and racing for females. Although there are plenty of events for all at Fishguard.

FBOR’22 is only in its 7th year with competitors coming from all over the UK as well as further afield. Initially an Ocean Ski race, the Sunday event now also attracts some of the best Ocean SUP racers that GB has to offer.

The race takes place in Fishguard Harbour, which embraces a large area of relatively sheltered water; ideal for many sports including paddling. One of our local SUP coaches and seasoned marathon racers, Martin Barlow, set the course (image below). Unfortunately the weather turned on Sunday morning and it was decided that they needed to shorten it from 5km, to 3km prior to the start. Typical sea racing will have competitors battle the elements over courses of 12 to 16 km in length, so our #ShePaddles Cymru SUP Race has been set up as an introduction with it's own set of medals, trophies and other prizes up for grabs by our 7 eager SUP paddlers.

The ladies paddled the deep clear water of the Irish Sea around a series of markers within Fishguard Harbour, starting on Goodwick’s sandy beach and finishing on the slipway not far from the starting line.

Our ladies did exceptionally well and took it all in their stride, as they navigated the course to the finish line. 

The finalists were:

• 1st Place  - Julia Kul
• 2nd Place - Leanne Bird
• 3rd Place - Michelle Lee

We are so pleased with the success of this year's race that we have already decided to make it a regular Canoe Wales event so keep your eyes peeled for entries opening in the new year, we can't wait for it to take place again. 

So get paddling & come join us!

Written by Lydia Wilford,  Canoe Wales Development Officer