Spotlight on Sarah Thornely - ASI SUP Instructor, London UK

UK, ENGLAND. Sarah Thornely is an ASI SUP Instructor based at Blue Chip SUP School on the River Thames London, UK. She has been a regular on the GB race circuit and is now a member of the GB SUP events committee and commentates at GB SUP events. We spoke to her about all things SUP.

How did you first get involved in SUP?
“A really good friend was one of the first women to SUP in the UK. She’s paddled in the 11 Cities event and is a really inspirational person. She encouraged me to try it and when I stood on the board for the first time I thought, Yes! This is the sport for me.”

Why did you become an instructor?
“I bought a board and then another and I was soon regularly paddling with ASI SUP School Blue Chip in London, UK. They asked me if I’d like to become an instructor and at first, I thought no, but then thought it would be a really good skill to have if I wanted to take a friend out on the water. So, I did the water rescue course to feel more confident. I then went on to train as an Instructor with ASI and gave my first lesson and just loved it.”

“I’ve been an instructor since 2015 and I just adore teaching. It’s that moment when you get someone who isn’t very confident or has an injury and inspire them enough to fall in love with SUP like I did. “

Why did you choose ASI?
“I’m really passionate about the importance of quality instruction and safety education in the sport.  ASI have the most comprehensive SUP education, safety and training courses around the world.”

Where has SUP taken you?
“I’m on the GB SUP events committee and I raced a lot last year. I help with GB SUP events and I’m now a commentator and get to interview famous race paddlers.  I also teach on the River Thames at Hampton Court in London with Blue Chip SUP School. And in the Rygate area where I take SUP river safaris in the Surrey or Hampshire areas.

Any interesting moments in your career?
“I once took some paddlers out on the Thames and there is one part of the river where we get out and carry boards around into the weir. We call it the weir challenge! There was one lady who was nervous about doing this so I took some time with her technique and built up her confidence. Seeing the joy on her face when she achieved it was just great!”

What’s next for you?
“SUP surfing is my latest passion. it’s the best fun. I’ve been down to Hayling Island and Saunton Sands in Devon for a SUP break. There is a lot of ‘whooping’ it’s so much fun. I’ve also tried white water SUP which is completely different and is also amazing. Having raced for four years with GB SUP I am looking for some new and dynamic paddling adventures with inspiring friends, and to continue teaching, which I love.”

Inspired to train as an ASI Instructor? We have courses running year-round and worldwide. For more information and to find one near you click here:
 

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About ASI 

ASI is a professional membership organisation and international governing body for instructors, coaches and schools in the outdoor recreation industry for surfing, stand up paddle and bodyboarding.
We set the standards for education, accreditation, professional development and ongoing support for our members, offering pathways from entry level to elite level.
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ASI Accredited Schools abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.
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