Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is thriving across the UK, and Wales is at the heart of its evolution. Paddle Cymru, AquaPaddle, and GB SUP have come together to deliver an exciting initiative, providing opportunities for paddlers of all abilities to experience SUP, from grassroots participation to high-level competition. This collaboration aims to build a structured pathway that allows paddlers to progress naturally, offering everything from relaxed social paddling to competitive national and international racing.

Emily King, SUP Lead at Paddle Cymru, has been instrumental in bringing together key organisations to ensure a thriving and inclusive SUP pathway. “SUP has grown so much in recent years, and I am incredibly excited to see this partnership develop. We want to create a clear and supportive structure for paddlers at all levels—whether you're just getting started or aiming for international competition,” says Emily. “This initiative is about inclusivity, progression, and making SUP accessible to all, no matter your experience level.”

Building on the successful collaboration between Paddle Cymru and the Fishguard Open Ocean Racing event last year, this partnership aims to showcase the potential for local paddling communities. It seeks to establish clubs, create events, and develop sustainable pathways that will ensure long-term growth and accessibility for all paddlers. Some of these pop-up events will be at familiar locations, while others will introduce new venues that highlight the incredible paddling spots across Wales. By fostering collaboration between paddlers, businesses, and clubs, this initiative is creating a sustainable network that will continue to grow and evolve.

The Roundtable Discussion: A United SUP Strategy

Earlier this year, Emily King hosted a roundtable meeting in London with GB SUP Club and AquaPaddle. GB SUP Club has been organising SUP racing events across the UK for over 14 years, while AquaPaddle provides accessible, community-driven paddling experiences. The meeting facilitated discussions on leadership pathways, collaboration, and how to create a structured SUP development strategy. The result? A clear commitment from all organisations to work together, embedding their ethos into an aligned strategy that provides clear opportunities for paddlers at all levels.

This agreement strengthens the SUP pathway, ensuring there is a seamless transition from local participation to national and international selection. “Bringing these organisations together was a key step in ensuring that we create a lasting, impactful strategy for SUP in Wales,” adds Emily. The commitment to nurturing talent at every stage of a paddler’s journey means that whether you’re dipping your paddle in the water for the first time or setting your sights on international competition, there’s a place for you in this growing community.

The Paddle Cymru AquaPaddle Pop-Up Tour 2025

Paddle Cymru and AquaPaddle are excited to announce the 2025 pop-up tour, designed to be welcoming, safe, and inclusive. The events are not races but instead offer a relaxed 5km paddle challenge in a fun, supportive atmosphere. Each event will have a Captain (Event Director), Crew (Marshals), and a Time Lord to manage the timings, ensuring a smooth experience for all. These events are also an opportunity for paddlers to connect, build confidence, and explore some of the most beautiful paddling locations in Wales.

By participating, paddlers will see how easy and enjoyable it is to get involved, whether as a paddler or as part of the organisational team. This tour is a showcase of the fantastic paddling locations Wales has to offer and an opportunity to inspire more communities to host future AquaPaddle events. AquaPaddle is designed for all levels, meaning even those who haven’t paddled in years or are entirely new to SUP can feel comfortable joining in.

Event Dates and Locations:

• 16th March 2025 – Swiss Valley, Llanelli.
• 23rd March 2025 – Park in the Past, Wrexham.
• 6th April 2025 – River Tawe, Swansea.
• 27^th April - Plas Menai, Caernarfon.
• 4th May 2025 – Llyn Padarn, Llanberis Caernarfon.
• 17^th & 18^th May 2025- AquaPaddle at the GB SUP Llandeggfeded, Pontypool.
• 1st June 2025 – Plas Y Brenin, Capel Curig.
• 21st & 22^nd  June 2025 – Fishguard Bay Ocean Racing AquaPaddle, Tech & Sprint Racing, Welsh Selection Race, Goodwick & Newport.

The final stop at Fishguard is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the season. As a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts, Fishguard offers stunning coastal scenery, reliable sea conditions, and a vibrant paddling community. This year, the event will be bigger and better, featuring not only the AquaPaddle but also the Fishguard Bay Ocean Race—a high-profile event attracting paddlers from across the UK. Participants can expect a weekend packed with activities, including a community raft race, an open-water swim around the breakwater wall, trade stands, paddleboarding workshops, and evening festivities at a local campsite. With its growing reputation as a premier paddling hub, Fishguard is the perfect setting for a landmark event in the SUP calendar.

GB SUP National Tour – The Welsh Event at Llandegfedd Reservoir: A Premier SUP Destination

Llandegfedd Reservoir is rapidly establishing itself as one of the top SUP racing destinations in Wales. Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Torfaen, this stunning reservoir provides an ideal setting for both competitive and recreational paddling, with its expansive waters and top-tier facilities making it a favourite among paddlers. SUP racing is growing, and this venue is stepping up as a premier location for national competitions. The Welsh leg of the GB SUP National Tour will take place on 17-18 May 2025 at Llandegfedd Reservoir in Pontypool. This event will be a celebration of paddle sports, with something for everyone, from first-timers to elite competitors.

Saturday, May 17th – Festival of SUP Paddle Sports

• AquaPaddle pop-up event (open to all paddle craft)
• SUP Polo, SUP Yoga, and trade stands showcasing SUP equipment
• Paddle Cymru stand
• Clinics and demonstrations from top SUP paddlers

Sunday, May 18th – GB SUP Racing Events

• Youth Development Opportunities: If you have a child who loves SUP and is aged 8 years or above, this is a fantastic opportunity to bring them along! The event will feature youth categories, short races, and a chance for young paddlers to develop their skills under expert guidance.
• Distance Races: 16km (Adult Fleets), 10km (Challenge Tour)
• Tech Sprint Racing for Juniors & Adults
• Novice Events: 1km Adult Novice, Fun races & SUP games for kids (Ages 8+)
• Industry Demos & Exhibitors

Building the Future of SUP in Wales

This collaboration between Paddle Cymru, AquaPaddle, and GB SUP marks a significant step forward for SUP in Wales and the UK. By combining expertise, resources, and shared values, this initiative enhances accessibility, community engagement, and strengthens the pathway from grassroots participation to elite competition. With expanded events, youth development opportunities, and strategic partnerships, the collaboration ensures a more inclusive and sustainable future for SUP across the country.

“This is such an exciting time for SUP in Wales,” says Emily King. “We want to create a pathway where anyone, regardless of background abilities or experience, can get involved and feel part of a supportive and growing community.”

Whether you’re looking to reconnect with paddling, challenge yourself with a timed event, or take part in the GB SUP racing series, there’s something for everyone.

To get involved, or find out more detailed location information visit www.aquapaddle.org or www.gbsup.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you on the water!

Contacts for media, images and permissions.

Brett Scillitoe; paddle@aquapaddle.org https://www.aquapaddle.org/

Scott Warren; info@gbsup.co.uk https://www.gbsup.co.uk/

Benjamin Edom; oceanskirace@gmail.com https://fishguardoceanrace.uk/