Introducing ASI SUP Instructor, Gavin Knox, Northern Ireland

Introducing  Gavin Knox.  Whether organizing unforgettable SUP tours, excelling in endurance challenges, organising community events, or championing clean water advocacy across the UK, Gavin’s impact is far-reaching. 

What is your background? 

I live in Moneymore, Northern Ireland, just near one of Northern Ireland’s largest lakes, Lough Leagh.   It’s about a 40 minute drive from Belfast. 

I've been involved with watersports since my teen years here in Northern Ireland.  Kayaking, surfing and transitioned to SUP not long after paddle boards got to Northern Ireland. I started with SUP surfing and began to explore SUP touring and distance paddling soon after. 

Since becoming an ASI instructor, I have built relationships with other instructors, supported some incredible paddlers and gotten to serve the paddling public.  I have assisted in helping paddlers develop their skills and competence while delivering actual experiences that paddlers can carry forward into their own personal paddling journey. 

What got you involved in the sport?

The short answer is friends, who are also part of a small community of stand up paddlers here in Northern Ireland. The paddlers who shipped in the first SUP Boards. 

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

My goal is to help paddlers progress. Some of the paddlers I’ve supported have gone on to join me in ultra SUP endurance racing events, such as the SUP Twelve hosted by Brendon Prince in Torquay, England.

I set up Good2Go Paddle Boarding where paddlers have gained valuable experience through a variety of activities we organised. 

Knowing that Good2Go Paddle Boarding has contributed to the growth and progression of others means the world to me. A job well done doesn’t require a pat on the back—it’s reflected in the confidence of the paddlers you’ve had the privilege to support.

What are you doing now ?

Over the past few years, finding a local water source unaffected by blue-green algae during the summer months has become a significant challenge. Adapting to this issue and reshaping the way I deliver my services has been anything but easy. 

My focus shifted to maintaining my SUP school, covering expenses, and paddling at alternative locations free from blue-green algae. 

At the same time, I dedicated myself to advocating for clean water across Northern Ireland and the UK. This journey has included an interview with SKY News correspondent David Blevins, speaking on local radio, and participating in environmental demonstrations to champion clean water. Being an instructor and paddling with others is just one part of a much larger environmental responsibility.  

This winter 2024/25, I took the time to reflect and plan for how best to ensure the sustainability of my paddleboarding future. I believe that was a crucial step forward.

What do you like about being an instructor?

Observing the stand-up paddling community advance and build their confidence is truly rewarding.

I also love the relationships I have acquired between our Island here at home and the mainland.  I have enjoyed the friendships.   

Something specific to ASI though has been the annual retreats, personally I have found them not only informative but key to maintaining ongoing development and having fun through experiences with other instructors. 

I believe it's important and healthy to paddle together and break bread together. 

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

It's been nice to be supported by people who have committed to paddling with my school since it's inception in 2022.  

Even as press release after press release, about not being able to paddle due to the blue green algae, kept hitting headlines. Knowing there are paddlers who put their personal development in my care that's invaluable. 

There are many highlights including: 

• Having a multi world record holder ask questions about local area info. 

• Being contacted by someone who wishes to get a best result with filming for a national board brand.

• Achieving SUP Firsts for Northern Ireland.

• Working with North Eastern trust NHS brain injury services.

• Being invited to contribute to a UK SUP Magazine.

• Being quoted by Bill Bailey on have I got news for you.

I think honestly those things are lovely.  

But the nicest thing is when I have faced challenges, there's always been the right voice at the right time with advice and or encouragement. 

Also, the admin team at ASI HO office in Cornwall UK, are fantastic when it comes to support and or advice !

About ASI

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.