Troon RNLI and Outdoor Partnership launch Ayrshire SUP safety workshop
Troon RNLI and Outdoor Partnership launch Ayrshire SUP safety workshop
Lifeboats News Release
On Monday 8 May 2023, at Troon RNLI Lifeboat Station, the Outdoor Partnership launched a new free initiative for paddleboarders to help them stay safe while enjoying the increasingly popular recreational activity.
RNLI/TroonLifeboat
SUP Safer Workshop launch. Present at the launch alongside Siobhian Brown MSP were Vince McWhirter, the Outdoor Partnership, Craig Lawless Adventure Paddle Co, Matt Pearce, Urda Cotter and Jim Redmond, on behalf of Troon lifeboat station.
In conjunction with Troon RNLI Water Safety Team, the free Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Safety workshops delivered by Adventure Paddle Co will offer practical and engaging training to paddlers from the National Governing Body for SUP at key sites across Ayrshire.
Present at the launch alongside Siobhian Brown MSP were Vince McWhirter, the Outdoor Partnership, Craig Lawless Adventure Paddle Co, Matt Pearce, Urda Cotter and Jim Redmond, on behalf of Troon lifeboat station.
Siobhian Brown MSP said, ‘As the weather starts to get warmer, the RNLI is preparing for the uptake of those seeking sun, sea and sand. Throughout the year, the organisation receives emergency callouts for people who have gotten into trouble in the ocean. That’s why I am so pleased to hear the Outdoor Partnership is offering essential training for paddleboarders in conjunction with the RNLI. I call on everyone who is planning to get on a paddleboard this summer to make use of these free workshops. Taking a bit of time to familiarise yourself with basic safety measures will ensure you have a fun and safe time this summer season.'
Vince McWhirter, from the Outdoor Partnership said, ‘The Outdoor Partnership is pleased to offer this funded SUP safety workshop. As the summer approaches we are aware of the increase in water based sports like SUP, open water swimming & canoeing. People need to be more aware of Offshore winds, tides, currents and safe entry & exits points and having the correct kit. This workshop in conjunction with the RNLI will hopefully help reduce callouts and increase people’s personal safety on the water.”
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing water sports. Whether it’s on an inflatable paddleboard or a solid one, SUPing is a great way to have fun on the water and to get fit.
However as a result there has been an increase in RNLI and coastguard callouts for SUP paddling incidents at sea.
Troon Lifeboat Operations Manager Jim Redmond said, ‘We are please to be working in conjunction with the Outdoor Partnership and the Adventure Paddle Co with the SUP safety workshops. Stand Up Paddleboarding is a popular activity along the Ayrshire coast but unfortunately we have seen a rise in callouts as a result. We hope this workshop allows those enjoying the activity to develop their skills, enhance their existing knowledge and be able to deal with situations should they arise.’
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.
