Introducing ASI SUP Instructor Russell Ives

UK. LONDON.  ASI SUP Instructor, Russell Ives manager of Albany Outdoors based at Kingston-Upon-Thames, on the River Thames between Kingston Bridge and Teddington Lock, London.  He tells us how and why he got involved with SUP and what made him decide to become an ASI Instructor.

What is your background?

‘My background was in paddling canoe and kayaks from a young age and I became a paddle sports coach at 16 years old. This became my career so included sailing to my coaching belt. From there I discovered stand up paddle, the natural group of paddle sports I had played in the early years with old windsurf boards and couldn’t let the sport go without giving it a good go with correct equipment. Then I was hooked.’   

Why did you decide to become an ASI instructor?

‘I decided to become an ASI instructor to support the development of my clients and to give extra growth to my paddle sports coaching. I’ve been coaching out of a multi activity centre in Kingston Upon Thames which has developed its SUP community in the last few years and getting my qualifications was the next step.

I like the fact that ASI is an international standard and that we can take it anywhere in the world.’ 

Tell us about funny or interesting or nice situation that has happened to you with instructing?

‘Nice situation: meeting a group for an evening paddle on the River with a fantastic sunset developing whilst paddling. Two people out of the Six love it so much they then went away and bought their own kit. In fact, they are still using us as their training venue what more could I ask for.

This is what I love about the sport that it’s so accessible and relating it to other water sports with little cost.’

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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.
International Instructor and Coach Accreditation. You can travel the world with ASI.
ASI Accredited Schools abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.
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