Emma Wynter / ENGLISH (light) VERSION

Emma Wynter / British Surfkayak HP Champion 2010



Name: Emma Wynter
age: 19
Occupation: Student at Swansea University studying Accounting and Finance.
Address: Swansea, Wales

Competition records:
British Champion 2010, 3rd Women’s HP at World Championships 2009 in Portugal, England team member winning the Home Internationals 2010, England team member winning World Championships 2009

Paddling experience: I started paddling about 5 years ago now, but have only been kayak surfing since 2008. I’ve managed to surf some great spots in that time, surfing in Spain, France and Portugal.

Sponsors: Mega

Gear: I currently surf a Mega Boost, use Reed kit, have Werner paddles and a Gath helmet.


Hello Emma, when did you start paddling?
I first started paddling when I was 15; I joined the local canoe club and was hooked!

Do you have any other paddling experience (river, polo, surfski, waveski, etc)?
I started off playing kayak polo with the club and then tried out kayak surfing a year later. Since starting Uni in South Wales, I’ve really been getting in to paddling rivers with the club here, it’s great fun but I’m a surfer at heart!

Where do you usually surf?
Back home in Cornwall my favourite break has to be Godrevy. I’ve been surfing there all my life and I’ve had some awesome rides there. Now being at Uni in Swansea, I’m right next to the Gower, and some of the best waves in Wales, which is the reason I came, that and something about a degree…

What do you think about the evolution of surfkayaking worldwide?
Well, I’ve only really been on the scene for just over a year, so I can’t comment on the long term progression. But, even just in the past year I’ve watched the sport grow. It’s great – surf kayaking is becoming more popular and I think this is definitely what’s needed. Through the canoe club at Swansea I’m getting people into the waves and teaching them the ropes.

And about riders… do you have anyone in special that you admire very much?
I couldn’t choose just one person, I’ve got a lot of admiration for the England Team, everyone supports and pushes each other, which is great. Most of all I admire the people who are pushing the boundaries and trying new things. The guys landing big airs impress me the most. It’s these guys who are making it more appealing to people who know nothing about it.

How often do you participate in surfkayak competitions?
As often as possible! I try to make it to every competition in England. What I’m most looking forward to is the Worlds in US this year.

You now belong to Mega Flying Squad... how was that?
Malcolm approached me during the Worlds in 2009 and asked if I’d like to be part of the Flying Squad. I was already surfing in a Mega Mustang and I really liked his kayaks, so it was an easy “yes” for me.

Best memories about Portugal Worlds...
The best bit had to be the atmosphere during the finals when everyone was on the beach cheering for their teams. I was proud of my achievement but just to compete in the finals was amazing.

Are you going till USA East?
Yeah, I can’t wait, sun, surf and a lot of great paddlers!

Now, tell us all about this project of "hitchhiking from Swansea to Morocco"...
Over Easter I will be hitchhiking from Swansea to Morocco in order to raise money for the charity Link Community Development. LCD works to improve the futures of children in Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, South Africa and Uganda by improving and developing educational resources. I’m looking forward to the challenge of hitching through France and Spain, meeting new people and raising as much money as possible for the charity, If you’re interested in supporting this worthwhile cause you can donate on www.virginmoneygiving.com/EmmaWynter

When do you next come to Portugal?
Haven’t made any plans yet but hopefully soon! It would be great to go back, after having such good memories from the Worlds.

Do you follow kayaksurf.net?
Yeah. I think its brilliant, keeps me up to date with all the news!

Let us some suggestions to those who want to start kayaksurfing...
Get out there and the main thing is it to enjoy it! If you can, try and surf with people who are better than you so you are always being challenged. Every time you paddle out try and do something new!

Thanks Emma and all the best for USA!

ALL THE PHOTOS / FULL INTERVIEW HERE:
http://www.kayaksurf.net/EmmaWynter.html