Andy Arnold

2014

What is your job and briefly what does it involve? 

I’m an electrical engineer, employed in the design and construction of sewage sludge treatment plants and waste food treatment plants across the country. I carry out the detailed designs for the plants from electronic and instrumentation control in explosive atmospheres, to High Voltage power distribution. I also produce the necessary supplier specifications for equipment needed, and provide support to our site installation and commissioning teams.

What 3 words would you use to describe yourself? 

Considerate, Quiet, Adventurous 

What is your favorite & best stuff: food/music/interests/weekend/ movie?

Food – Fish Pie

Music – Paolo Nutini, Santanna, Madelein Peroux and Adele

Interests  - Sea Kayaking, Fell Walking,

Movies – Amelie, Tell No One and Mamma Mia (… I know, but it’s fun - and ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ always makes me cry)

Books – Terry Pratchett (especially those concerning the Watch and the Witches)

Other – Getting together with my four grown up children (all girls) and having fun with the Grandchildren (‘till I’m tired)

What does sea kayaking offer you? 

Opportunity to get outside even when it’s raining (because there’s no excuse). Allows me to switch off from all the other pressures in life, and concentrate on the now. Be privileged enough to see our coastal wildlife creatures far closer than I ever imagined possible. Can make the day as mellow or adrenaline filled as I want. Opportunity to meet so many wonderful people from completely different walks of life.

What have you achieved, to date through paddling with Roger and Coastal Spirit? 

Since paddling with Coastal Spirit, I’ve enjoyed many wonderful hours on the water, both in Anglesey and in Scotland. My on the water confidence has increased significantly (which has influenced my off the water life too). I’ve become a confident independent paddler, with sufficient skills and judgment to paddle in a wide range of conditions, and know when to stay on shore. I now have a circle of friends that enjoy the same pastime, and I’m part of the community of paddlers that love Anglesey. With Rogers help and coaching, my paddling has improved enough to allow me to pass my 4 Star Sea Leader assessment, and look forward to taking other paddlers out on the water.   

Why Coastal Spirit?

 I first met Roger not long after passing my 3 Star Sea assessment. From that first day, I realised the instruction was second to none. Roger provides a holistic mind and body approach. Armed with the right physical skills and a good psychological awareness, achieving higher goals are assured. I’ve always felt well supported and safe with Coastal Spirit, aware that firm but gentle coaxing is there when needed.

What are you looking forward to and where would you most like to paddle next and why? 

My wife and I are going to Vancouver Island for the first time in the near future (kayaking with Humpbacks hopefully) – (Aug 2014 gave a taste and then July 2015 10 days in Alaska with Tracy - 6 days constant rain, wind and bigger seas, were experienced and some super wildlife!) this is something that inspired me to try kayaking in the first place. We also paddled off the Outer Hebrides and more recently Skye, places we fully intend to return to – the wildlife was wonderful and the rock formations awe inspiring. I’m considering paddling in Brittany next year. But more importantly, I’ll be in Anglesey this weekend. 

Choose 3 words to sum up your time with Coastal Spirit? 

Fun, Nurturing, Caring