Loco Stand up Paddle Boarding Academy

In an attempt to grow competitive SUP from a grass roots level, Loco stand up paddle boarding company have released details about their new SUP academy that will be up and running imminently.

With the aim of attracting, nurturing and developing stand up talent in the Tynemouth area, Loco head honcho Joe Thwaites is aiming to build on the success of 2012 when former Loco rider, Andre Le Geyt, took top honours at the national championships held at Watergate Bay, Cornwall.

Former Loco sponsored rider, Andre Le Geyt, in action in Peru – pic courtesy ISA

The Loco academy will be catering for paddlers from 11yrs and up who are searching for new challenges, a group of likeminded individuals with who they can enjoy the sport with and the opportunity to compete in either surf or race disciplines.

Paddlers with sufficient talent, skill and determination will be given a Loco SUP sponsorship deal and the chance to represent Team Loco at regional events and the national championships later in the year.

SUP caters for all comers and therefore whatever your sporting background stand up paddle boarding could be for you. The current crop of UK pros comes from all sorts of other sports – not just the extreme side of things. With subsidised top drawer coaching, provided by Loco Academy, all attendees will benefit and be in prime position to push their skills as far as they can.

After school sessions will be run through the summer holidays while adults will be able to take part in after work mid-week get togethers where taster sessions will be on offer for a nominal fee. Those showing an aptitude for stand up paddling will be invited to join the academy. For those not quite ready, Loco will signpost relevant SUP club options so paddlers can improve their skills ready for the academy later down the line.

To find out how to get involved email info@loco-sup.com or send a message via their Facebook page www.facebook.com/locosurfing

For anyone interested in some new stand up paddle board toys then check out the Loco range at locosurfing.com