Lisa's journey to freestyle
Kayaking is and has been a huge part of my life for 6 years. I really enjoy many aspects of this ‘unusual’ sport. For me kayaking is a chance to hang out with my family on the water and that is where my passion is rooted, just messing around in boats!
My first experience on the water was in a kayak in a flooded playpark watching my brother going down the slide (in his kayak)! After this I persuaded my dad to buy my first kayak. From there (after lots of trips to Symons Yat, and other small white-water courses) I learnt Whitewater skills and finally learned to roll. Shortly after my ‘thrilling’ experience of swimming more than surfing in the Hurley classic, and the confidence boost of a new playboat, I started freestyling.
I enjoy pushing myself to develop my skills and become better at freestyle. I go regularly to Kingfisher Canoe Club, Burners and Younguns. Younguns have provided me with epic opportunities and endless fun, I would like to thank all the people who make it happen. I enjoy their coaching and by the end I am thrilled but utterly exhausted.
The community of kayakers is awesome, and I enjoy kayaking with people older and younger than me. For a long period of time I was the only child in a club of adults, this helped me to respect and learn from their experiences and expertise. This helped me to become better as a kayaker and appreciate paddling with a wide range of people.
Recently I have become more proficient on the water and trying to nail loops, spins and sometimes cartwheels!
I enjoy competing and the atmosphere of freestyle. I appreciate that there will be people better than me but strive to do my best (despite the competition butterflies!), however I am soon ‘on the jazz’ and excitement overrules the butterflies.
I not only enjoy the competitive atmosphere, but I enjoy feeling the powerful rush of the water and I love the natural environment. Paddling is a great reason to get out into the big outdoors.
Words - Lisa Fowler
Pictures - Lisa Fowler & Younguns
