Here they talk about their favourite paddling moments so far this year, and what they are looking forward to.
Ailsa:
The best paddling moment of the year for me was my uni's kayak tour. It was a great opportunity to explore new places and push myself out of my comfort zone. It was also just really nice to be outside and spend time with my friends.
We’ve also got Nesk race coming up again next year which I’m really excited to compete at.
Ava:
I have had some amazing times on the water this year so I can't pick my favourite as they have all been amazing. On the sea, my main environment, I have loved challenging myself in conditions, distance and location. I have also loved spending some time on some white water gaining experience.
I don’t have any particular events coming up so I will probably just spending as much time on the sea and water as possible while balancing it around school and other activities.
Hannah:
My best paddling moment of the year was paddling down the course at Pinkston in Glasgow. This was my first time in a few years! It was so much fun because everyone was so supportive. It reminded me of all the things I love about paddling and it has inspired me to get out and paddle more often!
I am most looking forward to paddling the Great Glen Way with the Young Ambassadors next year.
Katherine:
My best paddling moment of the year was definitely going sea-kayaking near Fort William with the Young Ambassadors because it was so wildly different from anything I’ve done before. Parts of it really pushed my limits which gave me an amazing feeling of accomplishment and boost of self confidence when by completing it. Plus I got a few great scars and stories from it.
I’m really looking forward to completing my coach award and gaining experience in the run up to it. It’ll be a great summation of all the paddling I’ve done.I really hope to inspire everyone, and especially, younger female paddlers as a coach.
Sasha:
One of the best times recently was when I was on the middle Moriston at Wet West Paddle Fest and I did a drop I had never done before and ended up swimming for the first time. I was so nervous to go again as I was just in my head too much, but the people around me supported me and talked me through it, and I ran it again and felt so much more confident. Moments like that really mean something because I wouldn't be as confident as I am today without support from my friends and people I meet along the way in this industry.
I look forward to just going out with my friends for a paddle whenever I can and having some fun together, and pushing each other to try new things.