Eilidh Hay
Eilidh Hay achieved her Paddlesport Instructor - Kayak qualification, completing the course with Steve Mackinnon and Kirsten Petrie at Lossiemouth when she was 15 years old.
Tell us a bit about how you got into paddling?
I have been paddling since the age of two and have enjoyed going on adventures with family and friends ever since. I have kayaked in the most beautiful places from the Icey lochs and rivers in Scotland to cliffs and caves in Spain.
What do you love about paddling?
I love exploring the most extraordinary landscapes and challenging myself with exciting and sometimes scary rapids.
Why did you do the Paddlesport Instructor Course?
I was inspired by my mum as I wanted to be just as crazy for the outdoors as she is. I also wanted to share my love for the sport with others so they can hopefully get as much out of the nature and the adrenaline as I do.
What was good about the course?
I learned many new skills, like the essential safety and rescue techniques as well as how to make activities fun and engaging for others.
Tell us a bit about any Paddlesport Instructing you have done since?
As a new instructor for Outfit Moray, I have been involved in many sessions, assisted, and independently teaching a variety of activities.
What do you think needs to be done to get more young people to get into instructing?
I feel the opportunities for young people to volunteer in outdoor settings would provide them the skills required in order to progress through the qualifications system.
What are your ambitions moving forwards?
As of now I am only able to teach activities from a kayak, so my aim is to gain qualifications to be able to teach from a variety of craft.
