Post by Caroline Healy.
Want to try something different? Spice up your workout or explore the local waterways from a different view? Why not try stand up paddling ? (commonly referred to as SUP). As the name suggests, the popularity of modern SUP likely took roots from Hawaii surfing, however it has been around prior to that for centuries in other forms.
Luckily it has made its way to Ottawa too! You’ve probably seen majestic silhouettes proudly navigating the waters, partly thinking wow! that looks fun, but hard, maybe they’ll fall mwahaha…
For the above reasons, I was a little intimidated to try it. Although I’m fit, I’m no athlete and I am clumsy (I once took a wrong bike turn, fell in a river of mud and had to walk back through a small town with people pointing and laughing at a swamp monster…)
When I got invited to join a group to go for a weekend SUP outing, I jumped at the chance. But my pride and nerve drove me to look for some instructional classes ahead of time. Luckily I landed at the wonderfully accessible Ottawa SUP on Bank and Riverside. Thanks to them, anyone can go from zero to SUP and proudly navigate the calm waters.
This friendly no-pretension little shop opened its doors in 2015 and is here for a second season with intro classes and boards to use onsite or at your favourite SUP spot. I asked Laura Zak what the inspiration was for this oasis in the city. She initially discovered the sport through her bro who owned a surf/sup shop in Costa Rica (picture Endless Summer). She and Aussie partner met in Australia (yes, he has a hint of that cool accent and likes Vegemite sandwich) and wanted to bring access to recreational SUP in the city. Her sister (currently volunteering in Thailand) teaches too. Ottawa SUP creates an easygoing environment and even gives suggestions on other places to try.
Where to go? Each place has its specialty and charm (intro, nature, by moonlight, river currents, fitness, bring your puppy, yoga, adventure etc…) Craving nearby natural sites, memorable Kodak moments, lush waters and an eyeful of beauty and history? Rideau River at Chapman Mills Conservation Area is the answer. I enjoyed a guided Sunday tour with Rideau Rowing and Paddling last August. They open a little later in the season awaiting the warmer waters around end of May – June depending on weather but I promise it is totally worth the wait! Bonus, kayaks and picnic spots are also available there.
So many great SUP options in Ottawa. I plan to try them all:
- Ottawa SUP – Bank and Riverside
- Paddlefit – Various locations including Lac Leamy and Meech Lake
- Rideau Canoe Club – Mooney’s Bay
- Urban Ocean – Various Locations including Carleton Place http://www.
urbanoceansup.com - Rideau Rowing and Paddling – Rideau River at Chapman Mills Conservation Area starting ~ June weekends and Thursday–Sunday for July and August check their website for updates
Notes/pointers
Falling in the water happens (I did, but the water was nice)
Check with the pros for lessons and tips on safety, technique and the right waters
Consider your waters (currents, temperature, experience etc… I would also add aroma to the list – I tried the Venetian canals in Italy and if those waters could talk…
Have fun and Enjoy!
