What's SUP?

Theres a new watersport emerging onto the worldwide scene, being taken up by celebrities such as Pierce Brosnan and Kate Hudson, who like many are looking for a fun way to get a strong ‘core’ workout. But though it may be new to most of us, it really has an ancient Hawaiian heritage, rooted firmly in tradition. It's called SUP, or Stand Up Paddle Surfing, and it's appeal is in its versatility, allowing surfers the ability to catch more waves in a set, plus it gives them a better view of incoming sets. As the name implies, the surfer stands upright on a normal length board, using a single-bladed paddle for steering and propulsion.

History

While SUP's origins are in Hawaii hundreds if not thousands of years ago, the modern incarnation of the sport's genesis comes from surfing instructors looking for better ways to manage large groups of students and standing on the board gave them a higher vantage point, which increased their ability to see what was going on around them – such as dangers like incoming swells. In the early 60s, the tradition began with the "Beach Boys of Waikiki" who stood on their long boards and paddled out to take photos of the tourists learning to surf. Rick Thomas, a Vietnam veteran, gets credit for importing the sport to the mainland in 2000 surfing on a 11ft board.

More Than Just Surfing

Moderns SUP riders have found many more ways to enjoy the sport than mere riding waves. SUP fishing has gained a following, and its not just a gimmick, people are catching real fish from their boards using sophisticated rigging systems with angled rod holders, fish holding trays and other attachments. There are even companies who make boards specifically for SUP fishing. Along with SUP fishing, other boarders have developed alternative ways to enjoy the sport. Those who live in landlocked areas have to make due without the ocean churning up waves and have taken to lakes and rivers for their boarding fixes. Some prefer the slow, serene feel of a trip down a lazy stream, while others need more of an adrenaline high, going for the whitewater. Several competitions have been established, with all kinds of events like the slalom, downriver racing, technical sprints and, of course, big wave surfing.

If you are thinking about taking up this exciting sport, the boards can range from 600 to 1,500 dollars and you'll have to wear a personal flotation device as the Coast Guard now classifies SUPs as vessels. And in colder climates, its a good idea to wear a watersports drysuit.

sources: bluebookofboats.com, guyfletcher.co.uk, kaenon.com photos: kaenon.com

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