We are really chuffed to announce that top UK stand up paddleboarder, surfer, fitness guru and all-round nice guy Ryan James has become the latest waterman to receive a sponsorship support package from Curve and Thain Leisure. Ryan is the current BSUPA National Paddleboard Distance Champion and is a keen advocate of Curve SUP equipment and Onit Pro Xtreme Cream Board Polish.
Ryan started competitive swimming at the age of 4 and by 18 was in America on an elite swim scholarship. On his return to England he developed his training to include cycling and running and started to compete in triathlon. Ryan made the GB age group squad in his inaugural year of competition and turned professional in 1998.
Shortly after turning pro Ryan was signed by TEAMBath, at the University of Bath, whilst also competing for the Great Britain Elite Ironman Triathlon Squad. Within this squad he competed in 3 World Championships (Sweden, France and Switzerland) and 3 National Championships (highest placing 2nd).
Following retirement from competitive triathlon Ryan took up sprint track cycling, competing at two World Master and National Championships.
Ryan turned his hand to SUPing in April 2009 as rehabilitation for shoulder surgery. Catching the bug after just a few paddles Ryan has converted his 18 months in the sport to a top podium position in the National Stand Up Paddle Series UK.
“Ryan’s focus, capability and passion for Stand Up Paddle boarding undoubtedly shows in the success that he has achieved within the sport, and he brings these qualities to every aspect of his life”, says Chris Thain, owner and Managing Director of Thain Leisure. “He is always seeking to develop and improve himself and is open-minded to new techniques and products, which, from a sponsors perspective, is an invaluable asset. Ryan is a superb role model for youngsters and a great ambassador both for our Curve brand and for the sport of SUP.”
We very much look forward to working with Ryan throughout 2011 and to helping him achieve even greater success in his SUP events this year.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Pictures courtesy of Jon Parker & David Smailes Photography.
