#ShePaddles Ambassador Meg Eynon has been kayaking for just over three years now. She went from never having stepped foot in a boat to gaining qualifications in white water kayaking. Read all about her journey and see how you can give it a try yourself.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Hi, I'm Meg and I live in Cardiff in South Wales and I'm a member of Cardiff Canoe Club. I've been paddling for three years, after never stepping foot in a boat to gaining qualifications in paddlesports, my paddling has developed greatly. I now paddle at least weekly whether it's in the pool, the river or Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW), to say I've caught the bug is an understatement!
How did you get into white water kayaking?
I got into white water kayaking after a birthday present from my partner to undertake the ‘zero to hero' course at Cardiff White Water Centre. This aims to get you down the white water course within two days. I did this and was terrified of it! Joining a club allowed me to build confidence and paddling skills in a safe and friendly environment. They also gave me the opportunity to get out on the river weekly which really captured my love of white water paddling.
Do you have any memorable kayaking trips?
The #ShePaddles Cymru Summer Celebration last summer has to be my favourite weekend I've ever had on the river. Being surrounded by like minded supportive women who all share the same passion is something special. The whole weekend will forever be memorable, from the incredible coaches to all the women that attended, everyone was so supportive and built confidence no matter what your ability was. My personal paddling came on so much, and I even found (and then bought) a new white water kayak!
What aspirations do you have for the next 12 months?
To paddle as much as possible, go on as many river trips as I can and to continue developing my paddling ability. Getting out in nature and exploring new rivers is the reason I love to white water kayak so much and always a motivation to get out on the water.
I'd love to eventually gain my White Water Leader qualification to continue encouraging women and girls into paddling, especially white water kayaking.
What advice would you give to other women and girls wanting to try white white kayaking?
Have a go, don't be afraid to try! You don't have to be running waterfalls and hard rivers to enjoy the white water. Join a white water-orientated club that will develop the skills and confidence needed in a safe environment. There are so many great coaches and leaders within canoe clubs that can really inspire confidence to be able to get out on the white water. Women only white water events are so supportive and definitely recommend attending them to try white water whilst making new friends!
Thanks for sharing Meg! If you’re feeling inspired to try white water kayaking, find a club near you.
You can keep up to date with Meg’s white water paddles and her time as a #ShePaddles Ambassador over on Instagram.
Looking for more inspiration? Read #ShePaddles Ambassador Charlotte Fife’s journey into white water kayaking.