Downwind SUP Skills (SUP Wise)

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Enjoy the thrill and adventure of SUP downwinding.    

SUP downwinding uses special SUP boards, the ocean swells and wind to help propel you along.  It requires skill and strategy to judge the best peaks and troughs (runners) so you remain on course.

This course covers the skills and knowledge to identify suitable downwind environments, hazards and safety, types of equipment and SUP downwind paddle skills.    

This course is ideal for who people are experienced in paddling in the ocean in distances of 10km and want to improve their downwinding skills. 

It is also a pre-requisite course for enrolling in the ASI Level 3 SUP Downwind Instructor course.

Introduction to downwind paddling skills and techniques in ocean coastal locations, with paddle distance of 10 kms (6 miles) in 15 to 20 knot winds.

Downwind paddle locations are defined as:

  • Coastal ocean locations 
  • Wind behind
  • Wind speed greater than 15 knots and less than 20 knots
  • Swell size up to 4 ft swell
  • White capping waves
  • Offshore up to 500 metres (1,640 ft)
  • Paddling distance up to 10 kms (6 miles)

The course provides the pre-requisite knowledge and skills to be an ASI Level 3 SUP Instructor (Downwind)

Environment & Safety

  • Types of wind direction and strength
  • SUP downwinding hazards 
  • Self rescue techniques at 500 metres offshore
  • Wipe-out techniques in high wind conditions
  • SUP etiquette (rights of way)
  • Planning and logistics including launch and arrival points


Equipment & Clothing

  • Identify SUP downwind paddle board and equipment


Downwind Paddle Skills

  • Wave mechanics to maximize performance            
  • Strategy to catch and ride "bumps”
  • Maintaining momentum 
  • Downwind paddling techniques 
  • Stroke rates and length
  • Foot placement, rail steering, maximum board run, sweet spot on board
  • Swim 200 metres (650 ft), without stopping
  • Experienced and confident in paddling distances of 10 kms (6 miles) or more
  • Paddle competently in exposed water (ocean) conditions with 4 ft swell size 

Workshop
Duration: 1 day
 

This is a participation course only. 
There is no assessment. 
Attend workshop, participate in theory and on water practical paddling sessions. 

ASI SUP Wise Level 3 SUP Downwind logbook (booklet)

The following equipment and clothing is required to complete the training:

  • Downwind SUP paddle board (minimum 12ft 6") 

  • Paddle

  • Coiled leash 

  • SUP clothing suitable for paddling

  • Hydration system eg. camel back or water bottle

  • Tide watch. Ideally with GPS

  • Communications device (eg phone)

  • Energy food

  • Personal protection e.g sunscreen 

ASI SUP Wise Level 3 Downwind Participation Certificate

Not applicable.

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