Emily King is the SUP Lead for Canoe Wales, a passionate paddler, and an advocate for growing competitive SUP in the UK. She is actively involved in developing race pathways, promoting inclusivity in paddlesports, and competing in endurance events such as the Devizes to Westminster race. With a strong background in ocean and flatwater racing, Emily works to connect paddlers across disciplines and push the boundaries of SUP in Wales and beyond.
The Competitive SUP Scene in the UK – Written by Emily King
Competitive SUP in the UK has grown massively over the past few years, and it’s been incredible to be part of that journey. What started as a casual, social sport has evolved into a thriving racing scene, with more events, stronger pathways to international competition, and a real sense of community among paddlers.Here in Wales where I live and paddle, we have teamed up with the Fishguard Bay Ocean Racing event as the SUP Welsh team selection qualifier for both ICF (International Canoe Federation) and ISA (International Surfing Association) competitions. It’s a brilliant race—testing everything from technical ability in open ocean to endurance and speed over distance.
SUP Meets Ocean Ski – A Natural Crossover
One of the things I love about SUP racing in the UK is how much crossover there is with ocean ski. Many of the big ocean ski races now include SUP categories, which is fantastic for paddlers like me who thrive in open water and the ocean. These races are well-organized, safety-conscious, and offer pro race conditions—giving us the opportunity to push ourselves in a structured way on the ocean.
If you’re a SUP paddler who loves downwind paddling, or if you’re an ocean ski paddler looking to try something different, these events are an amazing place to test yourself. The conditions, the competition, and the challenge make for a truly rewarding race experience.
Endurance Racing – The Ultimate Test
I’ve always been drawn to endurance paddling, and it’s something that’s becoming a bigger part of the UK’s SUP racing scene. This year, I’m taking on the Devizes to Westminster (DW) race—a 125-mile monster that will push me to my absolute limits. Events like DW, the Great Glen Challenge, and the Thames100 are getting more attention from the SUP world, and I love seeing more paddlers taking on these iconic challenges. There’s something about the sheer grit and determination required in these races that makes them so special.
What’s Next for SUP Racing?
The UK’s SUP racing scene is only going to keep growing. More events, better pathways to international competition, and stronger grassroots participation mean the future is looking bright. I’m particularly excited about how we can bring more people into the sport—whether that’s through club races, AquaPaddle events, or big ocean challenges.
For me, SUP racing is about more than just the competition—it’s about adventure, challenge, and community. And with the incredible paddlers and races we have here in the UK, there’s never been a better time to be involved.