Adventures on a Paddleboard

I was asked to create a fun, informative and exciting week showcasing Whisky and Paddle boarding in Scotland with SUP the MAG (SUP Magazine is the sport's premiere print, digital and social media brand, exploring the lifestyle, destinations, communities and equipment of standup paddling) in conjunction with Glenfiddich Whisky.

With this partnership, we were able to connect the Glenfiddich brand with the SUP community via an inspirational journey to Scotland, hosted by Mitch Bechard and myself.

The result - a 12 page editorial SUP adventure in Scotland, shown below.

The challenge was to try and create an itinerary that was exciting and engaging.

  • Research and information gathering in the water sports industry, along with all the safety measures during the trip.

  • All of the group were very experienced paddle boarders, so I had to make it challenging enough for everyone.

  • Identify locations in Scotland which was challenging as SUP was considered a new sport in 2015.

  • Connect with as many professional local paddle enthusiasts as possible.

  • Make sure there was equal amounts of interaction with whisky and SUP.

  • Interaction with the editor, Glenfiddich Ambassador and photographer/videographer to make sure they go the right shots and content for their editorial.

Capturing the moment on River Garry

Capturing the moment on River Garry

I am a very keen paddle boarder myself so this was a trip made in heaven for me, so extensive research into locations for paddling was key. I wanted to give them a variety of sea, loch, river, and surf. All of which was achievable at these locations:

  • Dufftown Whisky Tour (Whisky)

  • Spey River SUP (7 miles down river)

  • River Findhorn (challenging grade 3-4 rapids)

  • Loch Ness 8 mile downwind paddle past Urquhart Castle

  • Loch Lochy paddle

  • Strathmashie Falls, Kinloch Laggan

  • Meiklour to Stanley Weir, River Tay

  • Belhaven Bay and Whitesands Beach Surf SUP

8 mile down wind paddle on Loch Ness.

8 mile down wind paddle on Loch Ness.

It was a successful trip. The press and digital coverage was amazing. The magazine produced a 12 page spread in their winter issue along with 3 videos shown across Youtube, Websites, Facebook and other social channels. I even featured on the front cover (albeit a tiny dot in the river…can you spot me!?)

SUP-Fall-cover_mag.jpg
Terri Bryce