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Up the (Gulf) Stream With a Paddle

orld-famous surfer , regarded surroundings. They also can paddle longer and more as a genius in crossover board sports, is easily while standing than in the sitting position required credited with a resurgence of interest around for . Wthe world in standup , also called Standup paddling appeals to many different people SUP or paddle , popularizing the sport among because it’s a relatively simple, straightforward yet boarders virtually everywhere. diverse activity. It’s possible to use the board for surfing, Paddle surfing originated with the ancient Hawaiians, traversing on a “downwinder” (riding the board backed who paddled their outrigger through the surf by tradewinds to cover long distances), as a or while standing up. During the 1960s, “beach boys” were platform, or just quietly enjoying secluded eco­ known to perch on top of big boards to snap photos for tours through the mangroves, along the beaches or in tourists. the backcountry flats in an environmentally friendly way. The sport has exploded in popularity and is attracting Two regions in the Keys are riding the wave of SUP enthusiasts and newbies alike to the Florida Keys to try interest. Lessons, day tours and equipment rentals are it. available through Islamorada’s Otherside When the are too much (or simply nonexistent) and Seven Sports, the board sports division of for , standup paddling is a perfect stand-in Islamorada Watersports Company, as well as the sport for fun and a core physical workout. kiteboarding mavericks at Key West’s The Kitehouse. Standing on the board, typically 12 to 14 feet in length, doesn’t just allow paddlers a better view of their — Julie Botteri

8 fla-keys.com • fla-keys.co.uk • fla-keys.de • fla-keys.ie • fla-keys.fr • fla-keys.nl • fla-keys.be Keys Traveler MATEO GARCIA Up the (Gulf) Stream With a Paddle

othersideboardsports.com sevensports.com Paul Menta of The Kitehouse paddles his board off Key West. thekitehouse.com

Keys Traveler fla-keys.com • fla-keys.co.uk • fla-keys.de • fla-keys.ie • fla-keys.fr • fla-keys.nl • fla-keys.be 9