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Sea kayaking Wales, Anglesey, with Coastal Spirit. A Blog of sea kayaking courses and personal expeditions and adventures. Wales, Scotland, UK and beyond.
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Shetland 2018 (5) and Is your Want Greater than the Fear?
3
Jul
2020
Shetland is impressive, It really is! For several years I heard this said, and I'm not sure what finally convinced me to book a ferry, but I'm super happy, I did. Massive caves, super long tunnels, Geos (pronounced Gee-Oh) is a narrow, deep cleft in a rock face, tide races, exposure and commitment, big ocean swell, stunning wildlife, unsettled weather, oh and remote. I've only been to Shetland twice, May 2020 was to be the third time.
This blog is about my first-time sea kayaking in Shetland and a few quick-fix Performance Psychology top tips that I use, with my self and those I work with.
Blockbuster locations - My top three.
Papa
The
The gannets of Noss. I've been privileged to see gannets before in their thousands, spiralling above and nesting on islands. But never previously on a vertical rock face as well as doing battle with Great Skuas. It's like a world war 2 movie 'dog fight' and its happening right in front of you.
I guess it means I'll have to spend more time up there in 2021. Our next course dates or sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know.
Performance Psychology - quick fixes
The body and mind are linked, so if we can make a change with our physiology, it will influence or psychology and visa versa.
Forcing a smile helps to shake off the stress, by relaxing the facial muscles and returns us to the moment - we can't be anxious and smile!
Diaphragmatically breathing is one of the most potent techniques for reversing the stress response. When anxious, our bodies tend to revert to shallow, rapid, chest breathing. Doing so keeps us in fight or flight mode, which is a sympathetic shock. One technique is called box breathing:
Box breathing: in through your nose for x4, hold x4, out through the mouth for x4, hold for x4 and repeat.
Squeezing the paddle and creating tension in the body, then letting go, releases the pressure. Yul Brynner used to get stage fright, and he found that if he pushed really hard on a wall as if he wanted to knock it down, it helped calm his nerves, before a performance. The mind can perceive the sudden sense of relaxation within the body as the reduction of anxiety and stress.
Self -Talk such as "Don't think! Play!" is a super cue for paddlers when faced with pressure, in a tide race, for example. When you find yourself overthinking and if you can't cut off your thoughts altogether, choose one word or a short phrase that directs your focus and instructs your actions.
Useful "cue words," or Self-talk such as "I'm coming up" after a capsize and beginning to roll. "Look for the eddy" for a paddler in the main flow or "what's important now?" with the paddler that just swam. Captures what you're trying to accomplish and helps you stay focused or re-focus on the task at hand.
Beat The Stress Focus – is a useful way to pull techniques together, with a plan. B is for Breathing, T is self-Talk, S is Seeing – visualize/rehearse, and F is Focusing your attention. Working with this model or creating your own can be helpful, in providing control in challenging and dynamic environments.
Two web sites which provide further useful thought, are worth exploring. The first is based on an actors perspective of Managing Stage Fright, and the second is Performance under Pressure, from a medical perspective, which has a lot of additional links. It's one of the best sites I've found.
Which is greater?
If we now come back to my original question. Is your want more significant than your fear? If yes, from my perspective and experience, then the above techniques will be super productive. Hence the various methods are called 'coping strategies'. Your confidence has dropped, and you need to re-focus. Yes, they will need to be practised just like your stern rudder did.
If your fear is more significant than your need and want, then it could suggest you've moved too quickly, maybe missed a level and not consolidated skills, experience and knowledge. The concept of comfort zones can be useful to consider. Stepping down a level to what you feel is suitable, so you can progress at your rate and address what's important. Re-focusing can be very productive and motivating.
The fear needs to be understood and addressed for any progress to be made. Loss of control, then consider what would give you control back? For example, understanding tidal planning and the 50/90 guide? Do you ever choose where you paddle? The relationship and impact between swell, wind and current? Or for example, If its a fear of failing, ask your self: What aspect could you fail at? What's holding you back? What can you do about it? Remember the last blog about controlling the controlables?
How too
Cross-training can be really useful. For example, If its lack of flexibility, then consider yoga or pilates, if its stamina, how about taking up, running, cycling, using a rowing machine, flat water race training or going swimming. If it's becoming more dynamic with decision making and more short sharp burst of energy, consider white water paddling.
Keep in mind that progress could also be a sideways move. This would mean understanding the triggers and what creates the anxiety so that you can avoid these in the future. For example, when it gets windy, it's difficult to control my sea kayak. How strong is the wind? Then consider paddling under that wind strength and get a good understanding of the various weather forecast so you gain some further control.
A more in-depth approach would be to consider a few Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions. This way you have an opportunity to develop further strategies to manage thoughts effectively, with a professional skilled in this area.
Our time is precious, so make sure it's worthwhile, enjoyable and what we want it to be. It's about investment. If we invest, we will reap the benefits. How much are you prepared to invest?
I hope to see you on the water very soon!
PS: Make sure you book a cabin, its worth it and adds to the whole experience
Around Anglesey on a Paddleboard Solo and More - Part 4
19
Jun
2020
In this blog, I look back at the last three years, part 4. I'm going to explore briefly two mental training strategies that I use, which are super easy to work with. Both I applied to a significant effect on my Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) around Anglesey solo. These are 1) focus on what you can control, and 2) trust what you've got.
Focus on the Controlables.
The "uncontrollables" is the most significant mental trap in pressure and stressful situations. The "uncontrollables" are all the things in a performance that is directly out of your control. As paddlers, for example, these are wind strength and direction, air/water temperature, current strength, swell height and power. To name a few.
When the focus is on the uncontrollables, three things will happen – 1) anxiety creeps in, and tension builds up. 2) self-confidence begins to slip and 3) performance begins to suffer. We then have created a self-perpetuating vicious circle.
If we focus on what are the elements we can strengthen, develop and ultimately control, we gain confidence. If we consider our effort, attitude/optimism, focus, preparation, those we paddle with, the location, the time in the day, and month, what we wear, what we eat and so on. This all begins to outweigh the negative stuff.
If we look at effort, how hard I work is up to me and no one else. Preparation I find is massive towards building my self-confidence. If I've put the real-time in I feel secure and comfortable, if my kit is working for me, I'm pleased with the time I put in testing and considering options. To the food, I'm eating that's keeping me ticking over and switched on, tastes good and give me the
Choose to trust what you got. At the heart of paddling with confidence in the face of pressure is trusting one's ability and paddling in the present moment. When pressure builds, our minds often become cluttered, and we lose our focus. We tend to focus on what just happened or what might (or might not) happen next.
The key to being "
This can also apply with the kit - trusting that I've got the right, paddle and in this case, the paddleboard for the task, I've set myself. This is because I've used, I'm very familiar and comfortable with it.
Preparation
I'd had a good 2017 on my paddleboard, and as I moved into 2018, I felt my skill level, endurance and mental attitude was in the right place. In the January I solo SUP out to the Skerries, an island of the NW of Anglesey. Then around May I did an overnight paddle with my kit and a bivi bag and now with a solid
Paddleboarding Solo Around Anglesey
During a super settled spell, in June 2018, I set off around 0500 in the morning. Why? It was something I could control, which allowed me a full day to work with what came my way. I had the flood with me from before Rhoscolyn which took me through the stacks (offshore) and across Holyhead Bay to Carmell Head (after waiting for The Irish Ferry to come into Holyhead).
I had just over an hour of the flood tide with me, but the back eddy at Carmell Head inshore was running against me now. So I slowly began to head into the shore. A fishing boat came to check me out, and I thanked them and said ' the coastguard new I was on the water.' I landed and took a three-hour break, refuelled with lots of water and a couple of mugs of tea, had a good lunch and a lovely snooze in the sunshine.
Pushing on
I was super pleased to be on the North coast and began to consider options. Stay where I was, push on (once the ebbing tide allowed to me) to
I eat as quick as my weary body allowed and set my bivi up. A slept solid. I'd planned to be on the water early, but due to my late arrival, I decided to let the alarm clock slip. Back on the water, I started to cross Red Warf Bay, with a gentle wind on my back. It ended up being very slow. Probably because I was weary and rather than being in the eddy I was going against the ebbing current (flowing against me) and with no close coastline, it was hard to measure my progress. It was time for a good welsh breakfast at the Pilot House cafe! I worked with the flood as far as I could and then eddy hopped down to Menai Bridge and waited for the ebb to allow me through the Swellies. I was soon back at my van parked down by the Mermaid Inn, with big smiles and a great feeling of satisfaction.
My short film below captures the essence of my adventure.
Reflections
I was the first person to paddleboard around Anglesey solo and self-contained and the third person in total. I had a personal best of 90km in a day, id paddled around 140km and in 23 hours total on the water time, in two days. I'd seen it as fun, I saw shearwaters (amazing sea birds) at the start and at the end of the day, porpoises close in on the north coast and just as I was flagging and a magical pod of
How To
I get a large piece of paper out and create a large spider diagram with what I want to achieve in the centre and around the outside what I can control. I consider and highlight what gaps may be in my performance, ability, knowledge, skill and kit, with a different colour pen. Then create an action plan to focus on and work with.
It had taken me three years from when I first starting paddleboarding and the early adventures of the three biggest natural Llyn, Lakes and Lochs and the first Brit to SUP around Menorca
I had 3 main goals with my attempt to paddleboard around Anglesey 1) to enjoy it and if I wasn't then land and then reconsider options (part of the reason I got off at Carmell Head). 2) be on the water for at least one sunrise 3) develop my forward paddling style further. I had purposely focused on Process/Performance goals, rather than Outcome (of getting around Anglesey) as I knew my mindset was going to be crucial.
What have you set your self? How can you use the above to assist you on your journey? How can you keep a focus on the fun as well achieve the goal?
My next blog ill look at a few top tips and quick fixes that can help when emotions are running high and Ill also talk about my first-time sea kayaking up in Shetland. Shetland really did blow me away with its beauty!
The Roof of Britain 2018 - Part 3
12
Jun
2020
Sea Kayaking Anglesey | Wales - The Roof of Britain (RoB) 2018
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| Johana approaching The Old Man of |
Part three of the last three years picks up on the start of one BIG Adventure, with Around Wales in 2010 through to the 2018 Roof of Britain expedition and the preparation involved.
In the Beginning
It was back in 2010 when Roger first thought of a big commercial expedition. He was keen to share a significant experience, an adventure with others. The reality is sometimes our friends are not interested in making a BIG trip, and he wondered if there would be enough interest. Roger was also hoping that the experience could be a springboard towards greater independence.
Around Wales in 2011, with Di, Sue, Paul and Sonja in van support for the canal section. Di named the expedition and wrote in two parts an article "Eat, Sleep Paddle -part 1" and part 2. It certainly got Roger thinking about the future potential with something more remote and the Roof of Britain seemed to tick the boxes!
To catch up you can read about the two previous RoB expeditions on a blog for the 2015 and 2017. The 2015 blog was written by the group.
The Roof of Britain 2018
The third Roof of Britain was with two very focused Swedish paddlers - Johanna and Anders. We had a few super windy days, and down to the in-depth preparation from both Johanna and Anders, we managed a few huge days. This which meant we stayed ahead of the storms.
We had some fantastic weather at times and the last couple of days down the Great Glen were outstanding. The short film below catches a few of the highlights.
Preparation
With each of the BIG expeditions, preparation has been a critical component, with time on the water, putting the miles down in training, checking kit and equipment is up for the job and considering food. What tastes good, provides the calories and also agrees with me. With around Wales, Roger got a great deal on energy bars. But, they all tasted the same - variety, for me, is the key!
Cross-training becomes super useful from getting out on that bike or a run and putting down the distance to yoga and core work in a class, gym, your own or online practice. It's about getting the body and mind in the right place. They are both linked after all. Roger has found that if he knows he can paddle 50km in a Beaufort force (Bf) 4/5 tailwind before atrip, his confidence is in a realistic and robust place. This, for example, allows him to manage a (Bf) f5/6, 30km downwind paddle. He thinks of the time spent in 2mt waves playing in that tide race, responding to hits and the dynamic rough water. It comes back to physical and mental capacity, which Roger mentioned in the previous blog.
In my next blog, I'll look at my Stand up Paddleboard (SUP) around Anglesey, the third person in total and the first person solo. What motivated me, and why?
The Last Three Years | part 2 | Our Surf & Tide Race Course and More!
5
Jun
2020
Coastal Spirit Wales | Anglesey | Sea Kayaking - Surf and tide race courses
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Rhoscolyn, Anglesey, North Wales Sea Kayaking | Surf and tide
With the strong currents, tide races and overfalls around Anglesey, plus according to the Met Office Anglesey is also the 7th windiest location in the UK. Coastal Spirits Surf and Tide
Ability and Level
Each of the courses has a maximum group size of four people, with the ability level of each individual from top-end Intermediate to advanced paddlers. When the first person books, this will tend to dictate the balance of the course. Either way, others are informed, so all have an understanding of the course level.
Background and Content
This type, of course, was more traditionally offered on a sea kayak symposium and for groups from Europe and Scandinavia, keen to get into the dynamic rough water.
Core content and training tends to involve aspects of the four elements below, and individuals want and needs :
Effective tidal planning - what conditions do we want, based on the forecast? If a tide race is suitable, then when do we want to arrive, after or before maximum? Could we get surf at this point and why?
Boat handling skills - keeping momentum and remaining dynamic, when committed, effective braces, power transfer and explosive energy.
A tactical approach - the strokes, actions and procedure that must be taken to achieve the chosen goal and to have a plan B, C and so on ...
Performance psychology – understanding our 'chimp' (the chimp paradox is worth a read), the concept of 'flow' and working around 'winning is in the mind' are a couple of useful ideas and approaches. I'll look at briefly the Chimp Paradox below and will pick up on the other two theories on another blog.
The Chimp Paradox
Written by Steve Peters, who was a consultant with British cycling and is now a performance coach advisor to Olympian's and elite athletes. He holds a medical degree and also trained as a psychiatrist. Academics often struggle with sharing and communicating knowledge in ways people enjoy. Steve uses analogy and metaphors as a useful way to learn.
One of the significant points that stands out for me is that your brain has two main competing forces, and we need to recognise them. Prefrontal cortex = human/ logical part of the brain and limbic system = inner chimp/ emotional part of our brain. The human acts rationally, based on facts and sees many answers to situations, in shades of grey. While the chimp only decides using emotions and sees solutions in black and white.
State of mind - It's advantageous to observe our own state of mind and if you're getting stressed ask 'who's in charge here? Do I want to feel and act this way? Or is the chimp taking over? 'which pathway am I going down?' Or in some cases, rather than a chimp it's a silver-backed gorilla! If I can only see one answer to a situation, I'm most probably working in chimp mode. Do I want to be?
Our emotional part of our brain is more potent than our logical side, so observing and asking questions early on is key to managing ourselves more effectively in challenging stressful situations, such as powerful dynamic surf.
Example: In a dynamic beach surf environment, your chimps job is to protect you, so listening and changing venues may be the best action. Or choosing to stay and stretch that comfort zone appropriately and easing your chimps concerns, allowing the logical self to gain control again. This may mean, doing a 15-20 minute stretching session, some side surfing in the soup, choosing an area with a small set of waves or getting on, out through the surf and working outback.
At the end of the day
Rather than getting too tired, missing that roll and taking a swim, which then likely supports your Chimps primary concern. Pacing yourself, managing your capacity, so you finish wanting more, Is the key. Ask your self two questions. 1) how much more mental capacity do I have left? How much more physical ability do you have left? And measure with a percentage mark.
Feedback and individual chats tend to happen as they arise on a course when it's real and in your mind. Each weekend ends with a group discussion and reflections so that each person has a more precise direction on what's required to progress towards their own chosen goal.
Below is the 2nd film Roger had created around 'what is sea kayaking?' This time the film considers gentle dynamic movement, of current and tide. Some of the fun and magic, which highlights why Anglesey is such a special place for Roger. The film ends with a fun and playful North Stack
My next blog will focus on 2018 Roof of Britain one-month-long expedition and provide an insight into the preparation for a BIG trip.
Plus despite these other wonderful destinations how returning to North Wales, Anglesey holds the magic. |
The Last Three Years - Part One
28
May
2020
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| Sea kayaking North Wales, Anglesey - wind against tide on the Menai Straits. |
A lot has gone on since my last blog, three years ago about Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) around Menorca. What's happened since then and what's new? Over the next few weeks, I'll aim to update and share some information about what's been going on. Then I'll move to one blog once a month.
What I can tell you now is, 2017 was a pretty fantastic year!
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| Kayak and Climb - NW Greenland Expedition and the area we paddled into |
Kayak and Climb - NW Greenland
Back in March 2017, I first mentioned my opportunity to go to NW Greenland. Good friend Olly Sanders had been many times before to Greenland, while for me it was to be my first time. The plan was to spend 20 days self-contained, locate new rock climbs and climb them!
Once afloat, I found the first few days trying. I was used to having a goal with either a linear journey with a defined finish or a circumnavigation, which meant getting back to the start. We were looking for suitable, stable and firm rock to climb and ideally, bigger and more prominent rock faces so that multi-pitch routes could be created and climbed. Some days we paddled less than 10km, and we may have landed 4-5 times to walk into possible climbing venues. If we found something, we then looked for a campsite. The exploration I started to enjoy, it was a different approach, it had less pressure, and I began to relax.
What did we do for food? We shipped out to Greenland a 220lt barrel, with our crampons, ice ace, climbing racks, rope and 20 days of 2 person packs of food. The food packs included breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner and were double bagged and tightly bound in gaffer tape to reduce their size. A fun element at the end of the day, was when we pulled out the next day's rations as neither of us knew what was in a pack. The variety was the key!
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| Roger Chandler - 'Looking on Greenland kayak and climb expedition ' -photo by Olly Sanders |
We both were shocked by the amount of plastic we found on beaches and on one beach that we stayed for a few nights, we filled 7 IKEA bags of plastic. We burnt some of this, and more robust plastic we buried at the top of the beach. Sadly our feeling was that this had mostly come from local villages, where the waste tends to be burnt or not as the case may be. We also discovered, due to the location of the waste disposal facility rubbish can easily fall into the sea.
Seeing icebergs close up, from a sea kayak is pretty unique ( it was on my list of 50 things to do in my 50's) and the rock structures in the area are truly stunning. During the 20 days, we saw no whales but spotted a couple of hesitant and distant seals, many sea birds and of course the wonderful Arctic fox on our last nights camp was exceptional.
In total, we climbed three single pitch and three multi-pitch rock climbs (Olly did the leading), with two further summits achieved and my connection to the Arctic was born!
I want to thank again the support we received from the Arctic Club and Olly for asking me, in the first place. You can see a further account by Olly regarding our expedition here.
It took me another two years to create a short film from my footage!
My next blog will look at the classic, sea kayak surf and tide race training courses, based on Anglesey, Wales. The opening photo above is of Anita over from Switzerland, enjoying the waves. We will consider what goes into a session and why the courses have become such a success.
The first UK paddler around the island of Menorca on a SUP.
16
Nov
2017
I had discovered my paddling gears and powered up through
the arch into a stiff head wind. I could
see the wind was stronger off the the final headland Punta Nati, 5km away. There were white caps, with a perfect blue
sky and blowing Beaufort f4 (14-16mph) NE.
We had come close to the NW point but there was no going on and we were
5km on from the last possible wild bivi spot.
We chatted briefly but turning and running back made sense and to be
honest for me on a SUP was the only option!
Two days earlier, we had been in a taxi on our way to Kayak
en Menorca, to hire a sea kayak for Sonja, who was going support me on my SUP
around the Mediterranean island of Menorca.
The island is a distance of between 180 – 220 km depending on how much
of the coastline is explored or hugged. The second largest of Spain’s three
Belariac islands, with a mellow and laid back feel.
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| Tramuntana wind |
For me it was the first time doing an expedition on a
Paddleboard. I had done a number of sea
kayak expeditions, so I had gone with the idea of one bigger holdall, like my
bow or stern hatch on a sea kayak. Then
other dry bags, with items such as my sleeping bag and mat, spare clothes and
food. While I had another smaller
holdall with snacks, first aid, snorkel/mask, sun tan cream, water proof jacket
and trousers, money/passport and items that would normally be in my day hatch,
that I want to be able to access. Sonja
had the tarp, stove/fuel and extra food.
I carried 22 litres of water on the tail of my Paddleboard
in 3 x MSR water bags and two SUP paddles, one as a spare and the other as my
main. I had a medium sized blade made by
VE paddles and the other was a larger blade by McConks. I was going to start with the medium blade
and as I got stronger and all was good, I would move across to the larger blade,
for more power.
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| working hard to keep the noose in and on track |
I was aware of a Bristol team headed up by Katie who were
going the other way around in sea kayaks.
A few of them I had met and worked with before. They were heading for Cales Coves another 9km
on and this seemed like a good place to aim for. It was a beautiful evening, yet we had some
kilometres to cover before we could fully relax.
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| Truly stunning |
The Bristol team, gave us lovely welcome and soon thanks to
Dave we were drinking mugs of tea and settling into the evening. Now with any trip it’s about finding the
balance between purpose and holiday. Too
much of a holiday and if the winds picked up, could mean game over and for me
this was new ground on a SUP. I wasn’t
sure exactly what I could do. Yes, I had
covered the length of loch Awe (40 km) a year previously, yet it was calm with
little to no swell. I’d put in time on
the Anglesey coast since so I was in a better technical place, but there still
was a lot to learn and develop. I was
keen to take it steady and pace myself so we headed out just before 10.00.
One of the lovely things about starting where we did was
despite being in a small cove, beside houses, it seemed quiet and those
buildings we soon left behind. We were
now leaving the remote cliffs and about to approach Son Bou. Swimming zones, deck chairs and the works.
It surprised me how busy it all was.
Our initial thought of heading in for a coffee, was replaced by ‘let’s
cut across the bay’. Sant Tomas seemed quieter
and a nice looking restaurant on the beach had some places. It was lunch time after all!
The rest of the day was mainly about me trying different
techniques with my forward paddling, which kept my mind busy as I was keen to
get as close as reasonable to the SW point, the Cap d’ Artrutx. We decide to pull into Cala en Turqueta with
28 km done. It was a busy attractive bay
and Sonja spotted the fisherman’s cave on the left, which meant we were out of
the sand and it was a little more peaceful.
On the water for 08.00 the next morning with about 8km to
the point, still trying to find the balance between holiday or expedition, we decide
after a couple of hours it was brunch time!
One tortilla and a couple of coffee’s later we were around the Cap with
a surprised, although welcomed tail wind.
We moved along the coast offshore and after a 30 minutes or so we decide
to aim for the headland West of Ciudadela.
Keeping an eye open for any ferry or big boat traffic in or approaching
the port. We had made good progress and were nicely established on the West
coast now.
The NW corner is one of the cruxes of the trip, with 14 km
of no landing due to cliffs and a rocky exposed shore and we were now
approaching this section. We now had a
head wind that seemed to be accelerating off each headland. But I had found my gears and was enjoying
powering up into each wind eddy. We
could see Punta Nati, with white caps flowing towards us, with a perfect blue
sky. We quickly chatted and it was an
easy decision, to turn and run back around to the edge of Ciudadela, 5 km away. At least we could enjoy the wind on our
backs. It was strange as we paddled into
Cala en Blanes, with a high rise hotel one side, a couple of bars playing music
and lots of people crammed into a small beach. I initially felt at odds and out
of place. Yet soon with unpacking and
sorting kit, I relaxed and joined Sonja at one of the bars, as well as David Bowie!
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| Break time! |
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| A gentle headwind |
Food and liquid refreshment all went down well and the crowds
soon disappeared and I had that good glow of 36 km, even if 5km was in
retreat. By 20.00 it was dark and it was
us and a few in the bar left. We had a
super light forecast for the next 2 two days.
Still North to North East, so a head or side wind, but it was light!
We were on the water for 08.00 and I had now changed to the
bigger blade. I felt we needed to do
what we could and get some mileage in the bank on the exposed North coast. It was a beautiful morning and we were soon
back at our previous day’s location. No
breeze this time though and making super progress. Punta Nati was soon behind and far in the
distance was the most Northerly point of Cavalleria. The second crux, which if possible I was keen
to get beyond as well. I wondered if I
could do that in the same day. Box the
two main crux points. We looked at the
map and decided it was realistic.
Bay after bay we passed, again trying to find that thin line
between gaining shelter from a headland to making progress across the bay,
against a light wind. Yep another headwind. I took dips in the sea, on the hour
today. My ankles had swollen up and in
particularly my right one. Just being
off my legs and floating felt great and I had also put the compression socks
and tights on hoping they would help too.
We took lunch floating in a small bay and I could have easily said ‘let’s
head towards that beautiful beach’ one of many.
I was tired. Yet I also felt we
had been given a gift F2 N/NE and less than 1 ft. swell on the North
coast!! It felt amazing passing beneath
the small light house, but significant cliffs of Cavalleria. Sonja did a super job of guiding me into our
new camp, that was a further 4km around the head. I was bushed, yet we had been afloat for over
10 hours and I had achieved my personal best with 46 km. Happy days!
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| The most Northerly point, with Sonja on the left |
Sonja found a super little cove with a lovely sheltered
area. Sorting kit and a super swim to
leave the day behind, before a big pot of sweet corn soup and small pasta
shells, then bed.
We were up at 05.00, and
soon I had the super porridge mix from Tent meals ready. 800 calories, that are well thought through,
tasty and had been fuelling me for the first few hours each morning. I was feeling surprisingly good and It was an
amazing sunrise, which stoked me further.
East coast here we come!
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| Magical sunrise start |
This was day five and this was probably the hardest part of the trip
for me, a gentle head wind, that grinded away at me and headlands that stuck
out further. Meaning, it was better to
paddle across the bay. The lighthouse of
Favaritx stood still. I guess I was
tired and tried to focus on being more effective with my stroke. Floating each break time in the water, next
to my board became essential and part of my break each hour. We were eventually around Favaritx and
heading further South towards Es Grau.
Yep, coffee time and some lunch felt good. I had that second wave of ‘we could stay
here’. Yet I was also aware we could, just
may be complete the loop. We had around
20 km to go!
We headed on out with Mahon as the focus and I found a 2nd
wind. I felt efficient, excited and
strong. Maybe it was the coffee! It was
just as well as the entrance to Mahon saw a few small sailing boats and motor
boats, moving about. The latter setting
up an exciting inshore swell, while I dodged the sailing boats!
Illa de L’Aire, is the island of the SE tip, seeing it meant
we were getting closer! At Cala Alcalfar
we had one of those tough decisions, with 6km to go but with one hour of
daylight. I had no real reason to take a
risk and aim to finish in 5 days, so after a brief discussion we headed in to
the natural harbour to take a look. A
lovely little village with a flat rocky area which would be ideal for our camp
and what sounded like a restaurant or a hotel at the back of the bay. It was a hotel so Gin & Tonics soon
arrived, as we decide on what to eat for the evening. 49 km and my personal best!
 |
| Leaving and the protected harbour of Alcaufar and the last 6km! |
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| Pausing ... |
 |
| Time for coffee |
Up and on the water early, as the wind was due to
increase. We headed on to Punta Prima
for coffee and as it happened a full English, cooked breakfast! 20 minutes’ later we were back at the start,
unpacking and laying out kit. Soon the
restaurant was open and we were sitting down to another tasty meal. I could get used to this, I thought!
Big thanks to Sonja for the support, McConks for the
paddleboard and paddle, VE paddles, Kokatat for clothing and Kayak en Menorca for being so helpful.
Roger
You can read here, a shorter version that I wrote for Stand Up Paddle Mag UK.
To see my video of the adventure on YouTube
 |
| Job done now time for some food! |
Roger
You can read here, a shorter version that I wrote for Stand Up Paddle Mag UK.
To see my video of the adventure on YouTube
Winter Sea Kayaking courses and more ...
12
Oct
2017
Here is a brief summary of courses that still have availability, over the Winter and into early Spring. Plus this Summer's sea kayak expeditions:
6-9th November - Advanced sea kayak leader training (5*) with Open water navigation and tidal planning. With ratio of 1:4 - 2 places left.
13-17th November - Moderate sea kayak leader training (4*) with Coastal navigation and tidal planning. With ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
9/10th December - Advanced sea kayaking. For those who are close to being assessed at Moderate sea kayak leader (4*) or Advanced sea kayak leader trained (5*). Based around the Advanced sea kayak leader and performance syllabus. ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left
16/17th Dec - Surf & tide races. From Intermediate to advanced and with the aim of really getting you surfing those waves. ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left.
13/14th January 2018 - Advanced sea kayaking, with ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
3/4th Feb - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left
17/18th Feb - Intermediate Plus, working on Moderate water skills and ideal for those who have completed the Moderate sea kayak leader training and want support with their action plan. ratio of 1:6 - 4 places left
24/25th Feb - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
28/2 - 4th March - Advanced sea kayak leader training and Open water navigation, with ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
10 -14th March - Moderate sea kayak leader training and Coastal navigation, with ratio of 1:6 - 3 places left.
17/18th March - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
Shetland sea kayak expedition - 23-29th July at £695 - 2 places left
Orkney sea kayak expedition - 4-10th August at £695 - 4 places left.
6-9th November - Advanced sea kayak leader training (5*) with Open water navigation and tidal planning. With ratio of 1:4 - 2 places left.
13-17th November - Moderate sea kayak leader training (4*) with Coastal navigation and tidal planning. With ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
9/10th December - Advanced sea kayaking. For those who are close to being assessed at Moderate sea kayak leader (4*) or Advanced sea kayak leader trained (5*). Based around the Advanced sea kayak leader and performance syllabus. ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left
16/17th Dec - Surf & tide races. From Intermediate to advanced and with the aim of really getting you surfing those waves. ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left.
13/14th January 2018 - Advanced sea kayaking, with ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
3/4th Feb - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 3 places left
17/18th Feb - Intermediate Plus, working on Moderate water skills and ideal for those who have completed the Moderate sea kayak leader training and want support with their action plan. ratio of 1:6 - 4 places left
24/25th Feb - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
28/2 - 4th March - Advanced sea kayak leader training and Open water navigation, with ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
10 -14th March - Moderate sea kayak leader training and Coastal navigation, with ratio of 1:6 - 3 places left.
17/18th March - Surf & tide races. Details as above and ratio of 1:4 - 4 places left
Shetland sea kayak expedition - 23-29th July at £695 - 2 places left
Orkney sea kayak expedition - 4-10th August at £695 - 4 places left.
Interested in any of the above then email roger@coastalspirit.com with your questions and I will get back to you with further information.
Make a change in 2018 and have an adventure!
#findyourfun
#exploredreamdiscover
Roof of Britain (RoB) 2017 - Fort William to Inverness, the 'Salty' Version!
17
May
2017
The plan had always been to do the complete loop, linking up the West and East coast with the Great Glen. A journey of 800km. Yet time was running out for us and at Thurso on the North coast and informal decision, or was it a thought, that was made to get to Inverness. This way we had a clear start and finish and a salty version of the RoB. This felt right and
as long as bodies held out and the weather played ball it was possible.
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| The start at |
My Facebook feed from the 16th April 2017, has the daily action here. I'm going to keep this Blog to the bare bones, with a summary, facts and my favourite ten photos.
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| looking up the Sound of Mull |
- From GPS our total distance was 727km
- 27 days in total with 8 days off, with 6 storm days and 2 days were we arrived earlier and decided to use the benefit of a public camp or caravan sight, to wait out the storm. In both
cases this really paid off, sogood sleep was had and we could each refuel.
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| Tobermory, Isle of Mull, with Don, Craig, Alan, Gerry and Roger |
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| Sunrise, just North of |
Longest day was day 25, with 67km and this was Wick on the East coast to 8km South of Helmsdale. 6 hours on a flood Spring tide and then paddling close in along a spectacular coastline with thousands of sea birds. A 13 hour day.
 |
| Gairloch, after a |
- Shortest distance was day 1, after leaving a car to Inverness and packing the boats at
Corpack (N of Fort William) to the Corran Narrows - 16km
- Our most efficient distance was our last day. Day 27 Cromarty to Inverness, 45km in under 5 hours!
- 11 wild camps, 7 public camps, 1 at a hostel, 4 in a caravan, 2 accommodation connected to a pub and 1 night on a floor (brother in law of Alan's).
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| Arrival at the stunning Sandwood Bay NW Scotland |
 |
Sandwood Bay was totally magic!
|
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| Duncansby Head and we're on the East coast! |
- We saw many sea ducks, red and
black throated divers as well as great northern, 2white tailed sea eagles, 7-9 otters, 4 pods of dolphins (common,risso and 2 bottlenosed), submarine motoringalong 1-2km North Rona, 2 artic skua's, puffins from around the Gairlock area and my first time hearing puffins calling was at Thurso. Many other sea birds with the most prolific on the east coast south of Wick. - We camped/
bivied at Sandwood bay (last sandy beach before Cape Wrath and landed for a break at Kervaig (first sandy beach on the North coast). Both are in amazing locations and two places I thought it would takealong time to get the right weather, to be able to visit!!
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| Bringing the journey to an end at Inverness ... |
As with most big trips, there's is always those that help to keep things moving forwards and after so many snapped tent poles with Gerrys F10 tent, Kate Duffus and a chance meeting helped with similar diameter poles. The hostel at Lochinver was ace in receiving a new set of poles. Sue (Alan's friend), was a great help and took both Gerry and Alan across to collect while we were off the water in the Summer Isles. Alan's brother in law did us proudly when we arrived in Cromarty at 20:00 at his front door, having never received a text and the pub had stopped serving food! Thanks for the many super messages on social media of information, support and encouragement.
Below is a short film I had edited and created.
Big thanks to Sonja for managing the bookings while I was away and doing a super job.
Dates for the Roof of Britain and One Big Adventure 2018 (1BG) will be out soon, so if your interested and want more information, have a look here or email me at roger@coastalspirit.com
Thanks,
Roger
The Roof of Britain and hunting for Nurdles!
24
Mar
2017
On the 15th April 2017 we begin our journey to paddle around the 'Roof of Britain' (RoB) a journey of 400 nm and with some of Britain's most exciting, committing and beautiful coastline. Basically its the top half of mainland Scotland, involving Cape Wrath and the Pentland Firth.
The team is made up of Alan from Sheffield, Don from Portsmouth area, Gerry form the Isle of Man, Craig from Anglesey and myself.
 |
| Thanks to Tavi for this original creation! |
We have had two intensive training weekends over the last 10 months and with a chilly overnighter mid January, to test kit, tents and equipment. Back in 2015 we got surprised by snow on a couple of beaches!! Since January action plans have been further worked on and emails have flown back and forth.
Where we will start the RoB, will depend on the weather at the time and for the forecast for the following week. We have 4 weeks in total to work with and to get as far as we can and complete the loop if the weather and bodies allow.
In 2015 we lost 10 days to storms and ended up with some big mileage days to try and complete the loop. It was a truly stunning expedition with a couple of exceptional mammal sightings - three Orca on the North coast and a Minke Whale, South of The small Isles (on the West coast). If you want to read our 2015 adventure then a couple of Blogs area here:
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| On the North coast of the RoB and a totally magic day with a BIG ground swell and a super sunny blue sky day. |
The other exciting news is we have team up with FIDRA to map Nurdles (raw plastic). Nurdles, really, yep! One month ago I had never heard of these and just thought it was broken down and worn out plastic. As I became aware of the problem I started to see then more easily on the sandy beaches near the high water mark. The plan is as we paddle the RoB, on each beach we land, the intention is to do a 2 minute collection. As well as observe and record is there more, so as to provide further evidence of how bad the spread is. Hopefully this will further support the work this company is doing in education and management.
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| Ive since learnt its better to ware gloves due to the toxins! |
So, I wonder what weather we will experience in April/May 2017? We will keep a weekly updates via Twitter and Facebook on our progress and if the weather is bad, then there will be time for a blog!
Hoping for many days of the sun on our faces and the wind on our backs - wish us luck ;)
Greenland - Eat, Paddle, Sleep, Climb 2017
21
Mar
2017
Back in 2008 Olly first invited me to Greenland but at the time it was my first real season with Coastal Spirit, so I said no!
When discussing the possibility of a trip in the summer of 2017, I was really keen to be part of it. That possibility has now become a reality with funding from the Artic Club and supported by Gino Watkins Memorial Fund; A & J Simpson Award. Many thanks for this!
The plan is to be self contained and journey in sea kayaks going North of Upernivik (on the North West coast) to explore the numerous potentials for climbing on the many islands in this area. The main objectives will be climbing alpine style roures we come across, accessed in a low impact approach from sea kayaks.
We will have 28 days in total. This will allow us to travel to the area, and probably 24 days in Greenland. We will need to pack our sea kayak with all of our food, camping kit, paddling and rock climbing gear for the whole time.
Im really looking forward to my
first time in Greenland and my second time above the Artic
circle. I'll aim to keep you all updated with progress.
I would also like to thank Tent Meals for their support towards our expedition, with great tasting, natural high energy breakfasts and evening meals.
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| Photo taken by Olly Sanders |
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| Photo taken by Olly Sanders |
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| Photo taken by Olly Sanders |
Surf & Tide-race Course
9
Feb
2017
This is the type of course that comes up on the various sea kayak festivals and for the last year Coastal Spirit has been offering two focused days paddling in the Surf and Tide-races of Anglesey, North Wales. This is through open courses, ass advertised below and weekends also for clubs were this has been a specific focus.
Experience the thrill of catching a wave, developing greater control and stretch your comfort zone, with support and guidance - good 3* skills as a minimum and the ability to roll at the Intermediate level. If windy we go beach surfing or a down wind run on the classic Menai Straits or if calm surf one or more of Anglesey's classic tide-race's. Learn how best to use your body, gain an insight into Performance Psychology, hear the rush of the waves and feel the salt on your face.
With a maximum of four paddlers you get more from this exciting opportunity and can really develop.
To enlarge the photo click on one of them.
Experience the thrill of catching a wave, developing greater control and stretch your comfort zone, with support and guidance - good 3* skills as a minimum and the ability to roll at the Intermediate level. If windy we go beach surfing or a down wind run on the classic Menai Straits or if calm surf one or more of Anglesey's classic tide-race's. Learn how best to use your body, gain an insight into Performance Psychology, hear the rush of the waves and feel the salt on your face.
With a maximum of four paddlers you get more from this exciting opportunity and can really develop.
To enlarge the photo click on one of them.
This could be you, just imagine that!
If your fit, keen, motivated to learn and want a focused time in the waves and surf of Anglesey, this course is for you. How does it work? Who ever first books on begins to influence the weekend. For example, If an Intermediate (3*) paddler books on then the course will be Intermediate to Intermediate Plus (4* trained). While if on another weekend an Advanced (5* trained) paddler books on then its Intermediate Plus to Advanced.
Due to small personal group size, individual needs are more easily managed, so you get more from the weekend. Keep in mind, due to only 4 places available, course's book up fast. Cost £160 for the 2 days and current availability is as follows:
10/11th June: Intermediate to Intermediate Plus, with 2 places left.
8/9th July: Intermediate Plus (could go either way) 3 places left.
23/24th September: Intermediate Plus to Advanced, 1 place left.
If one of these dates works for you and you want to move this forward then either email me or follow this link to complete an online booking form
More dates may be added, so keep an eye on my website or contact me if you have a specific date in mind - roger@coastalspirit.com
Thanks Roger
Spring course's with Coastal Spirit, Anglesey, North Wales
9
Feb
2017
The following courses currently have places on them this Spring and into early Summer. All are all based in North Wales, Anglesey:
Surf & Tide-race's - Intermediate Plus (4* leader trained) to Advanced with maximum of four paddlers and with one place left. Cost £160 on the 11/12th March. Follow this link
Sea Kayak Leader Training (4*) on the 27th-30th March with Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning (CNTP) theory. Three places left and at a cost of £270. Follow this link
Surf & Tide-race's - Intermediate Plus (4* leader trained) to Advanced with maximum of four paddlers and with one place left. Cost £160 on the 11/12th March. Follow this link
Sea Kayak Leader Training (4*) on the 27th-30th March with Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning (CNTP) theory. Three places left and at a cost of £270. Follow this link
Advanced Sea Kayak Leader training (5*) on the 3-6th April, with Open water Navigation theory and night navigation. One place left at £270. Follow this link
Intermediate sea kayaking - working on 3 star performance skills, 4 places left at £160 20/21st May. Follow this link
For any further information on any of the above follow the links above or email roger@coastalspirit.com.
I look forward to sharing the stunning Anglesey coastline with you.
Thanks,
Roger
www.coastalspirit.com
The 3 Lakes Challenge, Solo, Un-Supported on a Paddleboard.
12
Nov
2016
The Beginning
I think my first go was in April 2015 or was it October 2014, either way I was keen to forget it! It looked so easy and that's what I expected it to be, so i was shocked, when i couldn't stand up for more than a moment. So I forgot about it.
I love being on the water. At
the same time, its good to leave my kayak on the rack once in a while and
stretch those legs. I was looking for something different were I could
play, rest and yes stretch those legs. Earlier this April I was inspired by
Jack Hewlett as I worked with him on his British Canoeing 3 star sea. Ive
grown up with Jack and its felt a real privilege to have been involved and
shared holidays with his parents, Sean and Mandy and brother Charlie.
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| Salcombe, South Devon - Jack and Sean |
This time we were on holiday down in South Devon and between sessions, he
made Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) look so easy. I gave it ago.
After staying on the board for 50 mins, I was really chuffed and wanted
more. I bought a Paddleboard and over the next few months I started
putting some distance in on The Menai Straits, Anglesey and shorter sessions
working in the tidal flow of the Swellies. This challenged my balance,
reactions and was alot of fun.
A previous client had done a sea kayaking courses with me, earlier in the year and I was aware of her
achievement with the 3 lakes Challenge, unsupported, solo, over 3 days on a
Paddleboard and the first to have done this. This time I had a thought. A small thought or question really. Could I do this, the 3 lakes? What would it be like?
Ive only been Paddleboarding for 6ish months, would that be enough? I’d
done proper long sea kayaking days and expeditions, but what would it be like
on a Paddleboard? I allowed the thought to slip to the back of my mind
…but i continued to put in time once or twice each week on my paddleboard and
on top of a number of days sea kayaking.
I had a
block of days off coming up late September and early October, which i had been
protecting. I was keen to go back up to Orkney or sea kayak around Skye,
but the weather was really unsettled. Then I thought what about my
Paddleboard? I felt vulnerable, so I only told two people and as I got
closer to the Friday the weather was looking settled for all 3 lakes. I began to sort out my kit in preparation.
Llyn Tegid (Bala)
I got
up at 0530 and checked the forecast. Not brilliant with a f3/4, blowing down the lake and then dropping. I’ve tended
to stick to a saying my good friend Sean shared with me once. ‘rub your
nose in it and then decide’ - meaning the forecast is only a part of the big
picture. I decide to set off and have look. I arrived in rain, with
the wind blowing down the lake as suspected and it was cold. Although It did look like
I could sneak up the North shore to the far end and if I could manage that I
would then use the tail wind for the return journey.
 |
| Wondering 'should I stay or should I go ... |
I went
fairly light with a spare paddle, storm jacket (like a big cape), water in a
hydration pack on my back, bum bag with camera, flare and snacks. I wore
my trusty Kokatat salopettes and paddle jacket and set off. It felt
exciting and committing to the decision felt good. I had decided if after
30 mins I’d got no wear I could let the wind push me back. I set my self
a point on each bay, working towards the next headland and took a pause i each
bay. I was experimenting with a different style of forward paddling I’d
seen the night before on UTube and it seemed to be effective as my shoulders
were filling good!
 |
| Taking a short land break and no rain! |
As I
reached the far end of the lake the sun came out, i landed had some food and
then set of for the middle of the lake, to make the most of the wind on the way
back. 2 hr 30 mins later I had landed and Lake Bala was in the bag!
I changed out of paddling clothes, had lunch, a mug of tea and then I was
off for the Lakes to stay with my parents for the night.
Lake Windermere
I was up early and at my start point before light. I had
more kit this time, with a change of clothes for the other end, a lighter paddle jacket, my paddleboard kit bag, to transport the board back on the steam boat
and more food!
As I set off there was a gentle breeze against me, i only hoped that's
what it remained, gentle. I soon found my rhythm as I moved along the
East shore. As approached Bowness on Windermere I watched the car ferry
cross and hung back, deciding which side to cross to. I decided to stay
on the East side and worked my way through the moored Yatchs and then crossed
over to the West side, via the Northern point of Belle Isle. It was great
seeing the various hills and peaks wakening up and beginning to show them selves
as the day enfolded.
I watched the steam ferry heading for the top of the lake and I
squinted into the distance. This was my end point and I could just make
it out. A few yachts were out and that breeze I was pleased to say had
dropped right off and a glassy glaze had been left behind on the surface of the
water.
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| Ambleside and time to pack it all away for the steam ferry ride back |
4hr 12mins and I paddled into a bustling Ambleside, pleased with
my time. I quickly looked at my watch and I had 20 minutes to catch the steam
boat back or, get the one after at 1300. I went for the later as it allowed
me to change my clothes, pack my Paddleboard and have a big mug of tea and
a baked potato, with salad beans and cheese.
 |
| The drive North and a brief pause to soak up a super sunset |
Loch Awe
I had now paddled 18 miles, near enough 30km and I was wondering
how the 40 km of Loch Awe would go. It was clear that I was moving at an
average of 4.5 km per hour so with breaks the best I could do was around 10
hours. As I drove North i had phoned ahead to stay at the Toran Bay
Hostel, as the winds had an Easterly then SE component I was planning
to paddle South to North.
This also meant I was right by the water edges,
so up at 0530 again and paddling away at first light gave me 12 hours of
daylight. The only new bit of kit I had added was a hooped bivi bag.
If needed my intention was to put my change of clothes on, sleep on top
of my board (on the land!!) and have the bivi bag to keep me dry. I had
enough snacks, but I choose to leave the stove, sleeping mat and bag behind.
I wanted the thought of a bad nights sleep to spur me on. Plus I
had spoken to the owner of the hostel and we had arranged for a small fee a
pick up time and i don't like letting people down or being late!
I had also thought differently about my clothing and with such a
good forecast, decided to wear sandals, thermal leggings my Kokatat pac light water proof
trousers and a short sleeve thermal top with a hooded long sleave thermal top.
I had got two hot the previous two days. The hydration bag had
worked really well on lake Windermere and I had another 1lt container of water
on the board.
 |
| The start with the drifting mist ... |
I left the jetty and it was the first time my internal
dialogue was active and negative with self doubt. The mist was reeling
in and I soon realised it was actually fog. It felt like I was really
paddling into the unknown, it was cold and there was a dampness to the
air. I had around 100-150 mt visibility and a very gentle breeze and
swell towards me. All I could do was keep the shore in sight and as soon as I saw a brief
headland, I would set a course for this.
 |
| Lunch on land and the sunshine is out! |
3 hours later the sunshine
began to show its self and bit by bit the fog was burnt off. Yay, as I
felt the sun on my back and then a change in the breeze. I headed away
from the shore and for headlands further away, now with a breeze on my back.
Time for some lunch and a break on land. I allowed my self 20
minutes, knowing this now had to fuel me for the half of the journey. I
had been slower than expected, as the fog had made me keep much closer to the
shore, so I had some time to make up. I wasn't going to bevy
out!!
 |
| Down to my short sleeved t shirt ... |
I headed off more in the centre of the Loch and towards the
Black Islands, with the breese just to the right of me. My shoulders were
feeling sore now but I could see the NE end of the Loch in sight, and this
spurred me on. It was a beautiful afternoon and the mountains and the
water looked stunning. I was very pleased to be out there on the water.
 |
| What a magical end to a SUPer day :) |
I paddled towards the bridge in magic light and super silky
surface. 9hr 40 mins was my time and I was really chuffed. I
changed and deflated my board, packing it all away and carried it to the car
park. I was staying a 2nd night in Toran Bay hostel, and once back went
straight for a shower to get that hot water on my well exercised shoulders!
43 paddling miles, solo, unsupported, in 3 days and the 2nd person on a Paddleboard with a total time of 16hr 22mins.
 |
| The end, for now .... |
Further articles that Roger wrote, can be read below and a short film he also created of the magic conditions he had:
The 3 lakes Challenge information can be found here
Update - Roger is excited to share, is that since the 3 Lakes Challenge he has received sponsorship from Andy of McConks Padleboards and he looks forward to paddling the 10.6 for local playing and the 12.8 explorer for future adventures.
Update - Roger is excited to share, is that since the 3 Lakes Challenge he has received sponsorship from Andy of McConks Padleboards and he looks forward to paddling the 10.6 for local playing and the 12.8 explorer for future adventures.
Roger is more than happy for previous clients and friends to try and see if Paddleboarding may open up adventures for other's too, as he now has three different paddleboards.
Orkney Sea Kayaking, the magic 2016
22
Aug
2016
We had a fairly grim forecast, with strong gale force winds from the North which meant cold temperatures and a good solid swell running. thankfully so of that blew through and with Orkney being made up of over 70 islands, protection can often be found.
South Ronaldsay, East coast from water sound down and around Helcro Head, on to Old Head and then back up Wind Wick was the day. A super mix of playful surf at the start, swell and rock hoping, big clifts, caves, stunning arches and sea stacks, an amazing blow hole, some tidal flow and a small race and an intro to the magical Orkney.
Dat 2 saw us still avoiding the forecasted swell and the Deerness peninsular was paddled. Trolly stunning coastline up near Mull Head and whats known as a Gloop - cave, were the roof has fallen in, so daylight is seen, and then back into a cave. Must have been 200 mt in length!
Day 3 was really wild with lots of rain so we saw the local delights and various neolithic sites.
Day 4 although still windy, we went for a down wind run in the protected Scapa Flow. The result 18 km covered in 2 hours! As one of the team said they did more surfing in that 2 hours than they had done in the last year!!
Days 5 and 6 and we finally had a more settled forecast and the potentially of an overnight. Fins town with the Westerly wind on our backs and into the String (the sound between Mainland Orkney and Shapinsay, around Berwick Head and South to The Ness and a super wild campsite.
Douglas with the cannon lookout on the right!
A beautiful breakfast sunny morning, set us up for the day with a crossing to Shapinsay and a visit to the local cafe and super cute puppy only a few weeks old ...
The finish of our paddling, back at Finstown and a super happy bunch. Well done Julie for managing the guys and to all for making it a super trip, despite the mixed weather.
We crossed on the ferry with a super blue sky silky sea day, which would have been perfect with the SE wind to have paddled from Scotland to the Orkney. Another time!
Interested in Orkney? In 2017 there is a sea kayak festival on Orkney, i will be there and also offering a similar course beforehand. Details on a Coastal Spirit course will be out around Nov/December, so watch this space for 2017!
Thanks, Roger
4 Star Leader Training - 13 day developmental programme
28
Jul
2016
Have you ever wanted more time to develop your personal
paddling, incident management, assisted/self rescue skills and leadership, in
Moderate tidal water’s. If so, from
the 9th November a 13 day course begins that will take you thorough
the British Canoeing 4 Star Performance and Leadership award and much more.
Adriana Eyzaguirre
of Explora Expeditions has organized an exciting extended 4 Star Leader
training programme, with my self, here on Anglesey, North Wales.
Currently 4 people
have booked on, so the course will go ahead and they are looking for 2 more to
join.
The team will be training for 13 days with weekend breaks and the course
includes the Coastal Navigation & Tidal planning award and Foundation
Coaching the Mind award.
Additionally, I’m
is also offering the option to come along for two weekends following the 13
days programme to assist/observe me with his groups (must have solid roll for
this and only one person per weekend).
I’m also offering an opportunity to
join the coaching and mentoring programme offered by Coastal Spirit.
The team will be
staying at Anglesey Outdoors bunk house, during the programme.
This is a unique opportunity to
bring on further your skills, with a good mix of conditions and time to reflect
over the 13 days. You will also leave the programme with a detailed action plan.
Interested? Would you like more
details then contact Adriana via email: exploralondon@gmail.com
Thanks,
Roger
Performance Psychology - Coaching the Mind Module - By Keith Wilbraham
12
Jul
2016
Coaching the Mind Course my personal experience.
I did the coaching the mind course last year run by Lee
Pooley and Roger here is my experience of the course and where it has taken me
since.
I was in a bit of a rut with my paddling getting out about
once a month and sticking very much to my comfort zone and avoiding getting
wet. This was proving to be a problem as my paddling had not really progressed
for years and I really wanted to pass my 3star assessment.
The first day’s session with Lee was interesting and went
through a lot of approaches to how you considered things and how you could use
the techniques taught to improve your performance and approach to activities.
Lee’s teaching is interesting, his depth of knowledge and experience keeps you
engaged with the subject enabling you to learn effectively. This is important
to me as I tend to have a short attention span and don’t always do well in a
class room.
The second day was on the water and the idea was to take
what you had learned during the first day and come up with a plan to do some
focus on some aspects of paddling which you wanted improve. I had a sleepless
night, but found a bit if pizza box to jot down my ideas for day 2. I decided
to work on the three worst areas of my paddling, rough water, self rescues and
rolling. The plan was hopelessly ambitious for time available and for my
fitness level but Roger and Lee somehow managed to accommodate the variety of
things people wanted to try and I did some work on rough water, rolling and
rescues.
Highlights of the weekend for me was feeling more in control
in rough water and completing three rolls.
Since the course I have achieved a number of things that I
don’t think would have accomplished without the input from Roger and Lee.
My partner and I went to Plockton last summer and paddled in
a place I was unfamiliar with.
I completed my first solo paddle.
I passed my three star.
I have and approach to paddling in tide races which is
allowing me to slowly improve my performance and cope with the environment.
I think this course enabled me to move my paddling one and
was excellent in helping me achieve my goals.
Keith Wilbraham
Many thanks Keith, for your comments and Blog above.
The next course is this weekend 16/17th July for Intermediate paddlers or above and you can attend both days or just the first day. The first day involves various work and theory inputs and is fairly active and dry! The day can count as a British Canoeing Coach update and is aimed at Coaches, Leaders and those that want to improve their understanding and performance.
This could be white water paddlers, canoeists, climbers and so on. The skills are highly transferable.
The 2nd day is putting the theory into practice for sea paddlers.
Email roger@coastalspirit.com or call him on +44 7873 132999 for more specific information or to book a place. £180 both days or £90 for the first day.
Roger
Rolling is all in your mind … Why you should know about “Choking” in sport by Tavi Murray
31
May
2016
Rolling is all in your
mind … Why you should know about “Choking” in sport.
How many people do you
know who have lost their roll just before an assessment? Maybe
it’s happened to you? If so you probably experienced what is called “choking” …
Intrested, then read on to find out what happens in your head and how to
prevent it …
I have a pretty good roll
in my sea kayak. Last year I swam just twice, once pinned against a wall at the
Falls of Lora and once surfing. I lost count of the many rolls I did in anger,
mostly in the surf.
I decided it was time to
go for my 5* sea assessment … I worked hard in preparation … practicing things like
map reading in the dark and surfing, and I took countless friends off around
Ramsey Island, St David’s Head and to the Bitches tide race (thanks all!). Last winter I
got Roger to run some 5* weekends based around mock assessments. Everything
felt on track.
But one weekend this
February it nearly fell apart: I lost my roll.
It was supposed to be an
“advanced” weekend with another provider. Saturday morning we were deliberately
rolling on both sides while side surfing … some of mine were 2nd or
3rd attempts, I wasn’t thinking much about it – I was up and
paddling again after all.
Then I let the person
coaching into my head … “Hey Tavi, your roll isn’t bomber at the moment, do you
want me to have a look?” Doubt started, after all I was acutely aware I had an
assessment looming. “Ok” … I rolled offside, set up … effortless.
“That was perfect, try
this, I find it usually breaks a roll …” and it did. Within minutes I was over
thinking, trying to concentrate on sweeping, on blade angle, on set up … on whatever
would give me that effortless roll back … and all the time doubts about
assessment and the fear of losing my roll crept into my mind. That day I was a
rolling beginner. I could roll maybe one attempt in 10 on flat water and it wasn’t
my effortless roll at all.
Overnight I was really
stressed. I had an assessment in a few weeks. Maybe I should cancel it? Maybe
I’d lost my roll? How could I enjoy paddling without a roll? Sunday my roll was
worse, so in the end I just got on with surfing …
Monday I was in the pool,
playing polo with the teenagers I’d been coaching. My roll was back, effortless
again. And the next day I took my sea kayak to a pool session, and rolled and
self-rescued maybe 50 or 100 times, no thinking, no pressure, effortless.
Eh?
A chance encounter with
Roger led to an email exchange (I’m in the Coastal Spirit mentoring program –
which I highly recommend!), and in his answer Roger suggested looking at
“choking” in sport. It seems this is what I had experienced. Choking is the
phenomenon that causes famous golfers under pressure to miss easy shots that
will win them major tournaments, and causes footballers to miss the goal posts entirely
during championship penalty shoot outs.
Choking causes loss of automatic
behaviour, turning an expert into a beginner. It is caused by focussing on the
uncontrollables, which includes “am I losing my roll” or the outcome of an
assessment, rather than the “now”. It isn’t helped by thinking consciously
about the process (overthinking) – in fact that makes it worse. But reading
around I found there are research-evidence based methods to reduce the risk of
choking …
One method involves thinking
about a holistic, positive description of your roll (after all it’s impossible
to not think at all!) … For me this would be “effortless” which is what all my
good rolls are. So I concentrate on the word “effortless” as I roll. For you
the description might be very different! I suspect the phrase Roger has
mentioned he uses, “I’m coming up” fits this well.
The other sounds a little
odd to start with … but is to do with activating the right-hand (RH) side of
the brain. This is the part of the brain that controls automatic behaviour such
as an expert undertaking a task (rather than consciously controlled behaviour).
The RH side of your brain also controls movement of the left side of your body.
Before you try and roll squeeze your left hand on your paddle – that should activate
the RH side of your brain and help reduce the risk of choking.
I found the experience of “choking”
pretty scary and very stressful. It was a real relief to discover this wasn’t
just me and that I wasn’t losing my roll. This was a well-known and understood
phenomenon. And what’s more – I passed my 5* assessment last week. My roll on
assessment? It was just fine.
The moral of this story
for paddlers? Think about trying these techniques – maybe one will prevent you
experiencing choking under pressure!
The moral of this story
for coaches? Celebrate every roll you see. Each roll is a victory, and the product of a lot of hard
work, but each one is also a potential trigger to doubt … And think about
informing paddlers about choking and how to prevent it.
The moral of this story
for assessors? Don’t judge too quickly if someone fails a roll … maybe you are
witnessing choking? Maybe suggesting one of these techniques could help trigger
automatic behaviour and success? Maybe if you think you have seen choking you
might point to this information in your feedback?
Happy paddling to you all,
and may all your rolls be effortless (or whichever descriptor you choose)!
You can find further information on choking on the web – if you can’t
get the original papers and would like to read them feel free to drop me an
email:
A quick
search on “choking in sport” will lead you to lots of articles describing what
choking is.
The specific
research I mention above is at:
The holistic
description word technique:
Hand
squeezing technique – there’s a great lay summary here: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2009/jul/26/sports-psychology-choking
The original
research:
You can find information
on Coastal Spirit’s mentoring program (which I highly recommend) here:
And if the psychological
aspects of paddling are of interest check this course out:
Tavi Murray
Menorca - a sea kayaking paradise and an open crossing back to Mallorca.
19
May
2016
Following our successful paddle around Mallorca, we took a day off and managed to stay and catch up with my good friend Pete and his family. This also allowed us to wash and sort out kit, charge phones/cameras and pause for a moment.
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Now I had heard of this but I hadn't really realised how significant this wind was ...
The strong Tramontana wind is a fairly regular feature of the region in all seasons except summer. This variant of the French Mistral wind blows NE-SW across the landscape for 3-12 days at a time, and can be bitter when the
This we experienced the day after paddling on to the North coast of Mallorca, with big swell and increasing winds. Yeah, it was cold too...
The forecast looked good for Tuesday and a ferry on that evening could also work. We had the one trolly, so we would try and walk the kayaks on, one at a time. Getting them on from Alcudia was fine and free, getting them off was more difficult! When we arrived we had to move the sea kayaks as one unit and with full kit and 12lts of water that was going to be challenging. We got the impression the Boss guy wanted to go home!!
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| Theres a special feeling walking a sea kayak on to a ferry, which feels like a real adventure ... |
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| Wishing we had brought two trollies ... after realising it was a 2km portage to the beach form the ferry port!! |
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| Into the beautiful setting light of the day |
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| We played with the swell and the light on the wall, savouring the moment ... |
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| Rounding the Southern tip, with the top light of the lighthouse and looking for a place to camp!! |
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| Bay after bay just looked amazing and with so much wild camping potential |
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| And yet more magical colour and clarity ... |
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| The cliffs were smaller than Mallorca, but still stunning |
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| Clear evidence of cave dwellings ... |
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| A beach bar at Cala Binidall with Wifi for forecasts and a cool beer ... perfect! |
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| Super little camp ... |
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| Crossing the entrance of Mahon |
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| Time for lunch ... |
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| The final push back to our start point, and into a head wind, but with some fun swell
With the evening paddle on the first day and 3 further days we were around Menorca and to be honest i felt like going around again and this time much slower. After Mallorca, finding places to easily camp/bivi was such a relief and the island was so green and softer. We had been told that camp/bivi was almost part of the Menorcan culture and the problems were more with the incomers who now own property!!
We made it about 120km around, but again we were able to cross from headland to headland on the North coast, if you had to keep closer in the mileage would go up.
We landed back at Ciutadella and discussed options. I was super keen for the crossing, so headed off for more lunch type food and some more water, while Barry went off to the ferry port to clarify times. We both met back at a cafe with Wifi and decided to find a sheltered bay, to camp again for the night and if the forecast held for the morning we would go for the crossing.
Open Crossing to Mallorca
The wind was a f3 East, there about, but 3-4km limited viability. Not ideal, but at least the wind was in a helpful direction. The main channel was about 40km across so we felt 7 hours and that would be done, then it was about getting back to Alcudia and were my van was. We set off on a bearing and after 1:30 hours we lost sight of land and worked on finding some rhythm ... as we left the shelter of the island swell got more confused and running at two different angles making my sea kayak more difficult to manage ...
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| It felt good to see the ferry from Mallorca ... |
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| The confused swell that was running ... |
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| And now the ferry from Menorca ... |
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| Now we hadn't been able to get a map that had both islands on. This was the best we could do ... ;) Around the 5 hour mark we saw Mallorca, but to be honest it was confusing and disorientating. What part of the island was it? I'd left my Mallorca map in the van. Well it was sunny before and I could see the whole island from Menorca!
Around 7hours, 30 minutes we had reached the Southern headland of Alcudia Bay and now the job was to paddle and find the van. 10 hours 40 and over 60 km paddled, the job was done. Wet tired and hungry we changed and loaded the kayaks.
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| Pleased to be in dry clothes and on the way to find some food. Happy days ;) |
And once again Mr Shaw, it twas fun fella ;)
Roger
PS: keep your eyes open for a sea kayaking expedition back out to Menorca in October 2016, with warm seas and settled winds - email me if interested - roger@coastalspirit.com
Paddling around Mallorca 2016
18
May
2016
So when i was talking with Barry Shaw about my initial thoughts about a solo trip he was interested and suggested the Balearic's. I didn't need much convincing and over the next week or so, as we created a plan.
It was over 1500m drive and two ferries (2 hours and then 8 or so). We decided to go for Dover to Dunkirk and drive through France to Spain and get the 2nd ferry from Barcelona to Alcudia on Mallorca as it was 100 euros cheaper. We left at 0500 on the Saturday and arrived on the Monday morning at 0500, and looked for someway to park up and wait for the morning to begin!
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| Driving on down and some super cloud formations |
Now with over 400 photos, yep ... its difficult to decide on those that paint our story. So Ive done my best and hope you enjoy our adventure. I'll try and keep the words to a minimum!!
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| We started on the SW side of the most Southerly point and this was our first lighthouse of many!! |
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| Thankfully we explored and stopped at this small Cala, which made for a perfect nights camp and with enough time to dry kit! |
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| As we moved up the East coast (were going anti clockwise), we had some super assistance form the wind. |
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| Honestly it is that kind of blue ... |
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| This magic blow hole was so much fun ... |
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| Day 2 had been a long day. Not through choice, just that we couldn't find a wild enough camp. Time to be up early then!! |
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| The variety and colour along the coast was fantastic |
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| just had to be done! |
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| having a floating break before crossing the bay of Alcudia |
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| Whoop, whoop... Cap de Formentor, the most Northerly point |
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| As the North coast unfolds, it was time to look for a camp! |
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| Do your stuff Mr Baz Dundee.... |
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| Cala Figuera and my trusted kit! |
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| Next morning was chilly and atmospheric!! |
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| Heading for Cala Sant Vincent for more water |
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| Just leaving Cala Sant Vincent, in an increasing swell and wind ... we turned back, due to the next section of coastline was to be the most committing, with no landing until Sa Calobra, which even then we were unsure about. |
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| The next day, rest and ready |
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| The morning sun really brought the coast alive ... |
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| We had a gentler increasing wind on our backs and smiled our way along the coastline ... |
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| Entrance to Torrent de Pareis |
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| Just trying to capture the height!! |
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| The cost was that good ;) |
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| Getting a fly by with a large flock of Shearwater's -it was such a great sweep through |
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| One of many we passed along the way |
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| Now on the SW side and on the way to the Bay of Palma! |
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| We found it ... just a little to close to Magaluf! |
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| Beautiful start to the next day, although 45 minutes into the crossing and the wind suddenly increased to Bf4 -5 the f5 gusting f6, offer and out of the bay!! Thank fully 1 hour latter the aggressive front had passed ... |
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| We can get this at home ... |
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| Final on the water lunch ... |
Seven days in total which wasn't through choice. It was difficult to find wild camp spots and we found out afterwards, you can get fined for wild camping!
We made the distance to be 280km although we tended to go from headland to headland and overall we were fairly lucky with being able to do that
Big thanks to Hilleberg for the solo tent, Reed for the deck and cockpit cover and P&H Custom Sea kayaks for the demo Cetus mv - much appreciated Mathew ;) Further thanks to the support of Mitchel Blades for my paddle and Kokatat, for paddle wear.
And nice one Barry - thanks for the company ;)
Roger
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| Having a good run along the coast in my Cetus ... |
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| Claa Sant Vincent and a 4km loop before returning ... |
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| Landing in Cala Sant Vincent |
Skye’s the limit! Expedition prep time again… by Tavi Murray
20
Apr
2016
Skye’s the limit! Expedition prep time again…
The last few weeks have been jam packed – it’s now just days
before we head north to circumnavigate Skye. The Isle of Skye has some 280 km
of the most amazing and committing coastline in Britain. We’re paddling in aid
of Alzheimer’s Research UK as two of us have parents with dementia.
I’d been planning to circumnavigate Skye since last summer,
but unfortunately the person I was hoping to paddle with had an accident in
December that meant she could no longer commit to the trip. So at that point I
set about assembling a new team with the aid of facebook … “Team Skye” now consists
of a friend, the friend of a friend and a responder to a Facebook advert!
Hopefully at the end of the trip we’ll all just be friends!
Introducing Team Skye: Kevin Brown, Fiona Buttrey, Anita
Daimond, Tavi Murray.
Over Easter we all met for the first time on Anglesey to
paddle together. We spent a day planning (big thanks to Penny and Stan at
Anglesey Outdoors for the loan of the dining room) and 2 days paddling, getting
some distance in as well as practising rescues etc. We even managed a forward
paddling clinic!
Since then our nights and weekends have been busy with
expedition preparation. We’ve been getting in some fitness paddles, pounding
the canals as well as on the coastline round Anglesey and south Wales. Kevin
described the Manchester canal as feeling like a Scalextric track! I’ve managed
two 40km paddles on the canal as well as some evening paddles, fewer long
paddles than last year but I hope I’ve regained some of my fitness! We’ve all
been to the pool practising our rolls and self-rescues too.
We’re a group with complex food needs … Various allergies
and a vegetarian and a vegan team member means we need to take our own food and
not rely on the small shops on Skye. We’ve arranged resupply so we don’t have
to carry it all at once, and now our food has been purchased and packed. Maps
have been made and we’ve all practised packing our boats. My new boat gives a
bit of extra space but has needed lots of small jobs doing to get it ready from
drilling the skeg to installing new deck elastics.
I think we’re ready for the off! We’re travelling north to
Skye this Friday 22nd April and hope to start paddling on Sunday. Fingers
crossed for some settled weather – we’d like to get some of the committing west
and north coast done as soon as possible. As yet though both our start point
and the direction we’ll go is weather dependent!
I’m so much looking forward to the stacks and caves and
reputedly amazing coastline … we’ll post on facebook as much as we can as we
make progress– send Tavi Murray a friend request if you’d like to follow us!
If you’d like to make a donation to Alzheimer’s Research UK
we have a justgiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/TeamSkye.
By Tavi Murray
This is an independent trip that Tavi has organised separate from Coastal Spirit and Roger wishes Team Skye a successful and rewarding experience. Paddle safe and enjoy the journey.
I look forward to hearing about your adventures on your return.
Thanks Roger.
PS: Tavi is on Coastal Spirit's mentoring programme.
Springing Forwards with Coastal Spirit
7
Apr
2016
Its been a great start to 2016, with a number of Advanced sea kayaking courses, InterMediate, 3 star
training/assessment courses and InterMediate Plus. A few Bespoke private courses, during the week and with a near full callender up until late May.
With Summer just around the corner its a good time to start focusing on what you want from 2016 and those early wishes you may have made in January, to actually action!
Here is a list below of what is available currently.
training/assessment courses and InterMediate Plus. A few Bespoke private courses, during the week and with a near full callender up until late May.
With Summer just around the corner its a good time to start focusing on what you want from 2016 and those early wishes you may have made in January, to actually action!
Here is a list below of what is available currently.
- Introduction to sea kayaking private and unique. Available during the week, with details available here
- IntroMediate aimed at those who want to progress their sea kayaking skills with a gentle introduction to swell, current, wind and waves - 11/12th June, 9/10th July at £160. Have a look here
- InterMediate working towards 3 * performance skills - 28/29th May, 2/3rd July, 30/31st July at £160 p/p and during the week 19-22nd July at £270. Have a look here
- InterMediate Plus, is aimed at 4 star leader and performance skills, while working in moderate conditions - 18/19th June, 6/7th August at £160. Have a look here.
- Advanced sea kayaking is aimed at 5 star Leader and performance skills and at a ratio of 1:4 - 25/26th June, 23/24th July and 20/21st August at £160. Have a look here
- Coaching the Mind - for leaders, coaches and paddlers who want to increase their understanding, confidence and performance. Sports Psychology in action, with the first day of theory and work shops, which also can be used as a coaching up date and the 2nd day on the water putting theory into practice. Ratio of 1:4 and delivered by Lee Pooley and Roger Chandler. At £180 - have a look here for more information
- 4 star leader training with coastal navigation and tidal planning - 25-28th July at £270. Have a look here
- Orkney sea kayaking for top end Intermediate paddlers 8-16th August at £655. Have a look here
- 5 star leader training with open water navigation and tidal planning 17-21st September at £330 and only one place left. Have a look here
Bespoke opportunities are available form early June. A day is set at your pace, based on what you want and need. A great way to progress further and gain more form your time on the water. More information can be found here
For further information on the above either follow the links or email me direct at roger@coastalspirit.com
I hope to see you on the water
Thanks,
Roger
Storms and Winter Sea Kayaking, a Reflection ...
9
Feb
2016
Nine Storms have impacted the UK this Winter, with three of those in 2016 - Gertrude, Henry and Imogen. Yet in between these storms theres been time and space for some super Winter Sea Kayaking this January 2016.
The course I want to draw attention to is the Advanced course and this one in particular was the 2nd, 5* Leader preparation course I had run over the Winter. The course was aimed at those who had done the 5* Leader training and wanted to work in 5* assessment conditions. This was in a work shop format on specific skills and tasks or areas each person felt supported their individual action plan.
From the forecast we had the perfect weekend with Penrhyn Mawr working for some tide race action, some swell, wind picking up from the NW for the night navigation in Trearddur Bay and then a Skerries open water crossing on the Sunday with remnants of the wind. It had been a long weekend with conformations, further learning and further action plans created ...
A Leadership model I have used over the years which I feel really works and may help to provide a useful structure is by John Adair and is called Action Centred Leadership (ACL) and works around three circles - Task, Team and Individual. You may have a main Task for example of leading an Advanced journey involving a couple of tide races and then sub tasks. A sub task could be getting the team of the beach, through the surf at the start of the day. If we consider the Task: Whats the strategy to achieve the task most effectively? How are you going to work the team, team functions, giving purpose, buddy system, sub leader/No2? and do any of the individuals need specific attention, encouragement, how can I use individuals so there work contributes over all to the team objective?
Generally its difficult, if not imposable to manage all three areas at once, so time is given to one of the three areas and once thats been achieved, attention needs to be given to the other areas. If for example only the Task is focused on, one can probably see the job gets down, at the expense of the Team and the Individual!
So why not explore and experiment using the model below and enhance your leadership abilities and skills, as well as surfing that tide race wave!
Thanks to Tavi Murray for originally contacting me about the weekends and the idea. And Julie Jones, Debs Heldon and Zoe Robinson for making the weekend work. As for me, my personal learning was when you get a new paddle, remember to put reflective tape on it, just like you have on the other one. So if you ever loose a black paddle at night it may then just have a greater chance of seeing it!!
The course I want to draw attention to is the Advanced course and this one in particular was the 2nd, 5* Leader preparation course I had run over the Winter. The course was aimed at those who had done the 5* Leader training and wanted to work in 5* assessment conditions. This was in a work shop format on specific skills and tasks or areas each person felt supported their individual action plan.
From the forecast we had the perfect weekend with Penrhyn Mawr working for some tide race action, some swell, wind picking up from the NW for the night navigation in Trearddur Bay and then a Skerries open water crossing on the Sunday with remnants of the wind. It had been a long weekend with conformations, further learning and further action plans created ...
A Leadership model I have used over the years which I feel really works and may help to provide a useful structure is by John Adair and is called Action Centred Leadership (ACL) and works around three circles - Task, Team and Individual. You may have a main Task for example of leading an Advanced journey involving a couple of tide races and then sub tasks. A sub task could be getting the team of the beach, through the surf at the start of the day. If we consider the Task: Whats the strategy to achieve the task most effectively? How are you going to work the team, team functions, giving purpose, buddy system, sub leader/No2? and do any of the individuals need specific attention, encouragement, how can I use individuals so there work contributes over all to the team objective?
Generally its difficult, if not imposable to manage all three areas at once, so time is given to one of the three areas and once thats been achieved, attention needs to be given to the other areas. If for example only the Task is focused on, one can probably see the job gets down, at the expense of the Team and the Individual!
So why not explore and experiment using the model below and enhance your leadership abilities and skills, as well as surfing that tide race wave!
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| Action Centred Leadership - John Adair |
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| Tavi getting a good hit and looking solid ... |
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| Zoe working with Debs in Buddy Leadership |
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| The main race, with Zoe up flow, Julie centre and just the head of Debs (on the right) |
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| Leaving The Skerries on a flood tide |
Thanks to Tavi Murray for originally contacting me about the weekends and the idea. And Julie Jones, Debs Heldon and Zoe Robinson for making the weekend work. As for me, my personal learning was when you get a new paddle, remember to put reflective tape on it, just like you have on the other one. So if you ever loose a black paddle at night it may then just have a greater chance of seeing it!!
Roger
PS: Thanks to Zoe for finding my paddle, some 30+ minutes later!
PS: Thanks to Zoe for finding my paddle, some 30+ minutes later!
www.coastalspirit.com
info@coastalspirit.com
explore. dream. discover
Traditional kayak building workshop - Adriana Eyzaguirre
20
Jan
2016
Traditional kayak building workshop - Adriana Eyzaguirre.
When you
bring a boat to life in the traditional fashion, you create stories just as the
first kayakers did and still do. You learn complex building techniques like
steam-bending, but also how to understand wood, lashings and hand tools. In
class we talk about kayak history, native history and paddling adventures.
Every participant creates a functional piece of art: In our workshops,
every builder completes an ultralight kayak. On the final day, weather
permitting, we will paddle our boats and learn about Greenland kayaking
technique.
All the Seawolf kayak models undergo extensive R&D and are each
designed with a particular set of needs in mind - from long expeditions and
fishing, to surfing and rock gardening. Our builders will have
4 models to choose from.
Our next workshop will be September in Scotland. Our plan is to follow the
workshop with a two day expedition in the fiords and seas around our base.
If you want more information then contact Adriana - exploralondon@gmail.com
Current Courses and Exciting Opportunities for 2016
13
Jan
2016
2015 was a busy year, right until the end and I thank you for that! These last few weeks have been really useful and I have relished, doing those out standing jobs, like inputting on my new website, some study and generally catching up with my self. Except my tax return/accounts which was really boring, but had to be done. Its currently grey, windy and sleeting outside, so its easier to be sat in front of my PC!
2016 has started well and a number of courses are already full. The new calendar or find course by category, is up and running and dates are now up to August 2016. The following currently have places on and are going ahead:
6-7th Feb - Intermediate: aimed at working on 3 star skills and has only 2 places left, at a cost of £160.
5th March - Open Water Navigation & Tidal Planning: An element of the 5 star leader training, although this can be a stand alone theory course as well, providing a good understanding of coastal planning is already held. Cost £90
6-9th March - 5 star leader training: Advanced leadership and performance training, with night navigation also included. 2 days is the minimum requirement - 4 allows more time to allow for different sea conditions and processing. 5 days incl OWNTP at £330, 4 days at £270, 3 days at £230 and just the training at £160. Gain feedback and leave with a comprehensive action plan. 2 places are left.
16th March - Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning (CNTP): Theory day around understanding weather, tides, charts and planning coastal journeys. Part of the 4 star leader training, although this day can also be attended if you have basic tidal planning understanding and you want to increase your understanding. Cost £90.
17-18th March - 4 Star Leader training: Leadership and performance training in Moderate conditions. 3 days with the CNTP above is £230, just the training is £160. Gain feedback and leave with a comprehensive action plan. 3 places are left.
2/3rd April - IntroMediate: Only 4 places on this course which gentle brings a paddler into contact with flow, wind, swell and small surf - Now only 2 places left. Cost £160.
Two further courses I will highlight here are the Pembroke Sea kayaking, which follows the Stackpole sea kayak festival which I'm working on and 'Coaching the Mind', sports psychology course.
23-25th May - Pembroke sea kayaking: This 2 or 3 day course is for InterMediate paddlers as a minimum and aims to paddle some to Pembroke's classic islands and locations. It follows the stackpole sea kayak festival, so hopefully within the 5 days we will get a mix of sea conditions, weather, wildlife and with Puffins galore!!. This is separate from the Stockpile festival so go direct to them to book on the weekend. With me, its £230 for 3 days or £160 for 2 days and only 4 places are left.
16-17th July - Coaching the Mind: This is the 2nd course we have run and it was a great success, in 2015. This year we are adding a one day option, by attending only the theory course. Or as before with the 2nd day on the water sea kayaking and putting mental skills training into action.
The first day is theory behind sports psychology, in brief and is a mix of PowerPoint, active work shops and discussion. This means its open to any one who is interested in improving their own performance and coaching style. So if you rock climb, white water paddle, stand up paddle board or mountain bike, then come along.
The 2nd day is putting mental skills training into a sea kayaking environment, to enable your confidence to be able to grow and use the techniques, with on the water support. Because of this minimum ability is InterMediate and the working ratio is 2:8 - two coaches to 8 individuals or one to four.
One day costs £90 and two days is £180. On both days Lee Pooley, one of British Canoings national trainers and Roger Chandler owner of Coastal Spirit.
Only 8 places on the 2 day option, and 6 are currently available. A further 4 places are available on the first day.
With all of the above either email info@coastalspirit.com or message me on FB, for further information. Check out my website for other course and if you want something unique and individualised, then consider Bespoke sea kayaking. In the week, set at your pace and designed for you.
I hope a course above inspires you and I look forward to working with you on the water soon.
Roger
www.coastalspirit.com
2016 has started well and a number of courses are already full. The new calendar or find course by category, is up and running and dates are now up to August 2016. The following currently have places on and are going ahead:
6-7th Feb - Intermediate: aimed at working on 3 star skills and has only 2 places left, at a cost of £160.
5th March - Open Water Navigation & Tidal Planning: An element of the 5 star leader training, although this can be a stand alone theory course as well, providing a good understanding of coastal planning is already held. Cost £90
6-9th March - 5 star leader training: Advanced leadership and performance training, with night navigation also included. 2 days is the minimum requirement - 4 allows more time to allow for different sea conditions and processing. 5 days incl OWNTP at £330, 4 days at £270, 3 days at £230 and just the training at £160. Gain feedback and leave with a comprehensive action plan. 2 places are left.
16th March - Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning (CNTP): Theory day around understanding weather, tides, charts and planning coastal journeys. Part of the 4 star leader training, although this day can also be attended if you have basic tidal planning understanding and you want to increase your understanding. Cost £90.
17-18th March - 4 Star Leader training: Leadership and performance training in Moderate conditions. 3 days with the CNTP above is £230, just the training is £160. Gain feedback and leave with a comprehensive action plan. 3 places are left.
2/3rd April - IntroMediate: Only 4 places on this course which gentle brings a paddler into contact with flow, wind, swell and small surf - Now only 2 places left. Cost £160.
Two further courses I will highlight here are the Pembroke Sea kayaking, which follows the Stackpole sea kayak festival which I'm working on and 'Coaching the Mind', sports psychology course.
23-25th May - Pembroke sea kayaking: This 2 or 3 day course is for InterMediate paddlers as a minimum and aims to paddle some to Pembroke's classic islands and locations. It follows the stackpole sea kayak festival, so hopefully within the 5 days we will get a mix of sea conditions, weather, wildlife and with Puffins galore!!. This is separate from the Stockpile festival so go direct to them to book on the weekend. With me, its £230 for 3 days or £160 for 2 days and only 4 places are left.
16-17th July - Coaching the Mind: This is the 2nd course we have run and it was a great success, in 2015. This year we are adding a one day option, by attending only the theory course. Or as before with the 2nd day on the water sea kayaking and putting mental skills training into action.
The first day is theory behind sports psychology, in brief and is a mix of PowerPoint, active work shops and discussion. This means its open to any one who is interested in improving their own performance and coaching style. So if you rock climb, white water paddle, stand up paddle board or mountain bike, then come along.
The 2nd day is putting mental skills training into a sea kayaking environment, to enable your confidence to be able to grow and use the techniques, with on the water support. Because of this minimum ability is InterMediate and the working ratio is 2:8 - two coaches to 8 individuals or one to four.
One day costs £90 and two days is £180. On both days Lee Pooley, one of British Canoings national trainers and Roger Chandler owner of Coastal Spirit.
Only 8 places on the 2 day option, and 6 are currently available. A further 4 places are available on the first day.
With all of the above either email info@coastalspirit.com or message me on FB, for further information. Check out my website for other course and if you want something unique and individualised, then consider Bespoke sea kayaking. In the week, set at your pace and designed for you.
I hope a course above inspires you and I look forward to working with you on the water soon.
Roger
www.coastalspirit.com
Adventures in Chile 2015
22
Dec
2015
Its been cancelled, our flight from Madrid to Santiago, Nick said. We were both tired and really could do with out this. Thankfully after being patient and talking with Iberia, they managed to get us on a flight that evening, so we were back on track!
Before I go much further, I would like to say a BIG thanks to Pueblito Expediciones, for inviting me out to Chile, to work on the 3rd Sea Kayak Symposium. Its a long way to travel, from the UK (30+ hours) so creating other plans and adventures, is essential for me.
After an evening in Valdivia, catching up with Kate Hives, the plan was to get a bus to Pucon and then on to Puesco Fest. A festival of whitewater paddling, local culture and supporting Patagonia without Dams. The event was in a super and beautiful location, great campsite with fire fits shared around the site. The white water we saw was extreme, so i for one was happy to soak up the atmosphere of the event. Evenings were taken up with live music, with a strong Reggae influence.
Back in Pucon and the lovely Ecole hostel, which served vegetarian meals with breakfast, lunches and dinners. In town but set a few blocks back from the main street. Ben from Kayak Chile had hired kayaks to Kate and Nick, the previous year. So after a few words we had kayaks, a driver and a van to drop us on the river and pick us up. Perfect!
Rio Liucura and the Rio Trancura, lower and upper were run over the following three days and a good mix from class 2-4. It was good for me to cover familiar ground again and work on getting a more accurate line, from a previous day. I was on a steep learning curve, that was for sure. Everything was faster, bigger and words such as 'pushy' became common place. Nick below.
Day four and Ben said he and a few buddies were off to do the Rio Machin a class IV, 7km. River running, amazing canyons and with some steeper rapids. Would we like to join them .... I was pleased with my progress and felt we had been working really well as a team. I won't know otherwise, so lets do it!
The Rio Machin had been amazing. Yes I had been scared and excited. I'd walk one short rapid, that looked really awkward. And even after that decision I was still happy with my call. I'd also paddled what felt like the crux rapid, which had taken me a few moments to gain my focus. I new I could make the right to left, must make move. Although what followed was much more hazy. Which probably explains why I landed in a hole and took a moment to roll up!!
A truly beautiful river. Technical and fast and at other times allowing enough time to pause. It was by far the hardest sustained and committing white water I had ever paddled. I was chuffed and tired!!
The following day I had booked to climb Villarica, with a company, as this was now a requirement. That evening was the first clear view of the Volcano towering over the town. Earlier in 2015 there had been an eruption, so the Volcano had been closed. Deciding to open the Volcano had moved very slow for the local companies, but at least there seemed to be a more standardised approach. For example, you could only access the mountain through booking on with a company and no more than 12 people with 3 guides also. I was looking forward to getting my legs working and at 2,800 mt, they were going to get worked!!
It took about 4.5 - 5 hours to get to the top and the view was amazing. It had been tough and I had felt the effects of altitude - feet very heavy, lungs not getting enough air and shuffling forwards. Max 12 people and 3 guides made sure people moved at an appropriate pace. Coming down was a total blast and took about 1.5 hours and is another advantage of going early in the season when there is more snow around. Your given a plastic bum sledge, which you clip into your waist belt. On the steeper sections you slide on the waterproof trousers and as the slope gets gentle, then the bum sledges are sat on and off you zoom. Each person has an ice axe to help control speed. I LOVED IT!!
Id never done a whitewater road trip before and the 4 of us fancied hiring a pick up truck and kayaks off Ben and heading over to the West to paddle the Rio Fuy class 3+ and 4k and then the Rio San Pedro class 3 and 18km.
This is the Rio Fuy from the bridge and the get on is down in the eddy on the right. The guide book said the first section was steeper, then it eased off. This was my 5th white water day and 6th day of action. It was going like a train and all of the other rivers, had begun steady and allowed me time to warm up. This was fast, powerful and I was feeling anxious. My quiet inner voice was saying 'drive the van and run the shuttle' and i tried positive self talk and actually talked my self into running the river. After all its only 4km and I'd paddled harder and much further ....
As i left the eddy, I wasn't happy and then I was hit, by a wave and I was over .... I rolled and paddled hard to the edge of the river and got into another eddy. I looked down river watching the other bounce about. As I left the eddy, wave after wave hit me, it was like i was in a boxing ring and all I could do was take the punches. I was finding it difficult to see any form of line, then I hit a hole. My weight was to far back and my bow went over my head and I got recirculated. What happened next I'm really not sure, but I hung in ... missed another roll and I felt I had moved out of the stopper, I set my self up for another roll and then felt the rocks pressing against me ... time to exit!
I popped up, grabbing my kayak and paddle kicking for the bank. Nick soon had his bow towards me and paddled backwards into the eddy. Few ... my first swim in 5 years!!
For the next 3.5 km Christian and Kate led and Nick worked with me. The end was a relief and I was pleased to have kept it together on the other rapids. Christian below, we met him at Puesco Fest and we all got on well. He was from France and had dovetailed well into the team and was clearly enjoying him self.
That afternoon we drove across to the start of the Rio San Pedro and I reflected back on the day. Was it wise to do the next river? I didn't want to hold my buddies back and create difficulties but it was supposed to be an easier river and it certainly looked like it started gentle!!
Well it was a super nights sleep, really peaceful and a still morning. There was a river gauge and it was reading 1:8 mt, which based on the fact there was others further up the bank, suggested it was not in spate and more like normal conditions?!
I did a load of stretching and had a leisurely breakfast. This worked well. I took my self off 30 mins before every one else and did load of rolls. Working on the belief and understanding that mind and body are linked, so if I can influence my physiology I can also effect my psychology. I got my self into a good place and I felt happy to give it all a go.
Two rapids had been huge. Amazing wave trains, like South Stack race being funnelled into a narrow channel. I just kept looking for my amigos, working hard to see my line and deciding to follow or go more left or right of them. With also an awareness and one eye on any recirculating holes. None appeared that were problematic, and could be easily avoided. Body forward, eyes up and concentrate on the line, was my mantra. I was very pleased to have decided to paddle the Rio San Pedro as it felt like a fitting end to my time before SKPS.http://www.skps.cl
It had been totally amazing and good, to be in that student learning place. Uncomfortable at times with a need to dig deep, but also to be reminded of that inner voice that's often quite and gentle, yet is so knowledgeable.
The four amigos, with Kate, Christian, Nick and my self. Thanks to both Kate and Nick for the white water photos and for sharing a super time in Chile. And enabling me to achieve a BIG tick on my 50 things to do in 50's - paddling ww outside the UK!
Roger
www.coastalspirit.com
explore. dream. discover
Courses and expeditions
Isle of Harris Exploration
The Isle of Harris is part of Lewis and is rich in natural beauty, sandy beaches and stunning wildlife. The golden eagle and white tailed sea eagles are highly likely to be seen most days.
We will be based at a campsite and if the weather is super settled we can decide if we do an overnight wild camp. During the last two years we've at least managed two nights wild camping.
You need to be an experienced moderate water paddler who can manage Beaufort winds f4/5 and occasionally stronger. You're also happy paddling a loaded sea kayak for 20km
We meet up on the afternoon of the 30th of April and leave on the morning of the 6th of May 2027. Zoe Robinson and Roger will be delivering the course. Both are advanced coaches and advanced sea kayak leaders.
We will be based at a campsite and if the weather is super settled we can decide if we do an overnight wild camp. During the last two years we've at least managed two nights wild camping.
You need to be an experienced moderate water paddler who can manage Beaufort winds f4/5 and occasionally stronger. You're also happy paddling a loaded sea kayak for 20km
We meet up on the afternoon of the 30th of April and leave on the morning of the 6th of May 2027. Zoe Robinson and Roger will be delivering the course. Both are advanced coaches and advanced sea kayak leaders.
1
May
6 Spaces remaining
Outer Hebrides by Tall Ship ... Intention St Kilda!
The Outer Hebrides are an outstanding and beautiful island chain. Sometimes called the Western Isles. Our intention weather permitting is to sail the 60NM to St Kilda, set in the deep Atlantic. 'Lady of Avenel' our mother ship and floating home - this is a lifetime experience with two adventures in one!
With Lori, Zoe and Roger as your advanced leaders. We meet on the afternoon of the 6th of June and load our sea kayaks onto 'Lady of Avenel' and kit into our cabins. You need to arrive on the 4th of June. This allows for any disruption with the CalMac ferry and a rest day, after a long drive). We arrive back in Castlebay on the 12th June.
You need to book and arrange your accommodation for the night of the 4/5th June and the 12th June.
There are two hotels, a bunkhouse in Castlebay and a short drive to Wavecrest campsite, which is where Lori, Zoe and Roger will be van camping.
With Lori, Zoe and Roger as your advanced leaders. We meet on the afternoon of the 6th of June and load our sea kayaks onto 'Lady of Avenel' and kit into our cabins. You need to arrive on the 4th of June. This allows for any disruption with the CalMac ferry and a rest day, after a long drive). We arrive back in Castlebay on the 12th June.
You need to book and arrange your accommodation for the night of the 4/5th June and the 12th June.
There are two hotels, a bunkhouse in Castlebay and a short drive to Wavecrest campsite, which is where Lori, Zoe and Roger will be van camping.
6
Jun
2 - 1 cabin left Spaces remaining
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Our adventures on Facebook
St Kilda here we come!!
We've just been buzzed by two bottlenose dolphins ... 32 days ago
Great day with Sally working on boat handling, reading the water and its ok to feel uncomfortable.
Cemaes to Bull Bay was perfect, with wind with tide and then wind against by the afternoon so we got a few waves and a nice push along the coast.
It was nice to see Rob again too. Thanks for helping with the shutle! 56 days ago
Great team and super time on our Shetland Adventure with the tall ship Lady of Avenel Sailing. Otters, Puffins, Orca and MuckleFlugga!
Thanks to Zoe Robinson and Hamish Leslie for their support and inputs.
Photos from Tracy, Zoe and Hamish.
P&H Sea Kayaks
NRS Europe 75 days ago
Our Facebook reviews
Tavi Murray
"And I'm probably learning more from his mentoring now, as my paddling horizons expand, than ever before. I can't count how many questions I've asked... and he's answered. Roger has the knack of making that suggestion that radically changes your thinking and moves your paddling on in leaps and bounds."
Stella King
"There are a number of wonderful things about Roger. He has a very light touch in his coaching, and he's always smiling and encouraging you to relax into the enjoyment of the day"
Simon Turnbull
"I've just completed a two day 4* Sea kayak training course with Roger. Having been coached by Roger in the past, I choose to do this course with Roger because I knew I would get a great deal from the course. My expectations were certainly well and truly met"
We come recommended
“Thank you for all your help and guidance, you made it a great time with your smiling face and positive outlook. Happy paddling.”
Jo from Yorkshire
