Tell us a bit about how you got into paddling?

I was 4 years of age and I was at a residential camp when my parents were in the Army in Germany. I tried Kayaking and Paddleboarding. 

What do you love about paddling?

I love the connection with the water. Scotland has some beautiful lochs and rivers. My favourite thing is Social paddles. We paddle with SUP Lanarkshire Social Group. 

Why did you do the Paddlesport Instructor Course?

I have had some great instructors over the many years I have paddled. My mum and dad inspire me. They run a Paddlesports School and help family’s who can’t afford to paddle. They also teach Autistic children and now have a wheelchair on a Paddleboard. 

What was good about the course?

I loved all of the safety training. Learning how to save people and rescue their craft. I loved how Adam taught us how to teach others from our own craft. 

Tell us a bit about any Paddlesport Instructing you have done since?

I teach with my Mum and Dads company Central Scotland Adventures. We are at Auchinstarry Marina on the Forth and Clyde Canal. I have been an assistant with other instructors and am learning my own style. 

What do you think needs to be done to get more young people to get into instructing?

Giving young people the opportunity to access paddling through clubs or funded lessons, having someone visit groups and telling young people about how to be an instructor

What are your ambitions moving forwards?

I would like to do my Kayak qualifications. I think I could be a good Kayak Coach. I am looking forward to going white water with Adam. I would like to follow my dad and be a SUP Leader and take expeditions.