Moray SUP - Tom Wakeford and Claire Buchanan

Tom and Claire gave a great insight into the history and activities of the Moray Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Club.

The group started back in 2017 as informal meetings each Saturday, coordinated by Jim Gibson. In February 2020 the Moray SUP Club was formed, just three weeks before COVID put us all into lockdown. There are currently 119 adult members and 2 junior members. The club aims to provide opportunities for people to participate and receive coaching in SUP, promote safety and to provide a community for SUP enthusiasts to get together.

The Club operates out of the West Beach in Lossiemouth although they also utilise the estuary behind the East Beach and more recently Milbuies depending on weather conditions. Every Saturday they offer sessions for beginners to learn SUP, there is also a monthly intermediate session to develop techniques and Club sessions which have included river SUP and Paddle Polo.

The club also gets involved in events for the community and has been involved in litter picks along the river in Lossiemouth.

On the sporting side they held a trial event this Summer, covering 2k and 5k off the West Beach.

The club has also organised charity events including a paddle for Ukraine and a Santa SUP on Loch Morlich in aid of DSUK (Disability Snowsport UK).

The Scottish Canoe Association Recognition Awards in 2021 saw them receive awards for Club of the Year, Coach of the Year for Jim Gibson and the Willing Hands Quaich was awarded to Tom and Chloe Wakeford for their volunteering efforts, all very well deserved.