World first paddleboard leash safety video released by governing body
A campaign in Simon Flynn's name - to prevent further deaths - is now having a worldwide impact.
Last updated 15th Sep 2021
Simon's best friend Sam Foyle has been campaigning for updated paddleboard safety guidance and better education - which is now being spread across the world thanks to the sport's UK governing body.
Mr Flynn, 42, a competent swimmer and tutor from near Cheltenham, died after falling off his paddleboard in August last year - while out alongside his partner Chia in the Camel Estuary near Rock in Cornwall.
The ankle leash he was wearing got trapped on a boat mooring and he was pulled under in the strong tidal current - preventing him from releasing himself. It is believed Simon would still be alive today if he'd worn a quick-release waist belt instead of an ankle leash.
A coroner afterwards said it was an 'issue for manufacturers' that should be looked at and the sport's governing body British Canoeing have now released an updated safety advice video - alongside their updated guidance - which aims to combat online misinformation.
Mr Foyle wants quick-release waist belts to be sold with all new paddleboards as standard - along with ankle leashes - and for retailers and manufacturers to make it clear why the two types of leash are needed for different water situations.
British Canoeing's Head of Coaching Lee Pooley said: "A lot of our providers do work and live overseas so the guidance that we've recently issued is being used right across - internationally.
"There's been lots of support on social media. A lot of people saying great to see this new infographic out there - with new guidance - we've had some really great support.
"The whole of the community have spread the word for us as well.
"Our reach is that providers that deliver stand up paddleboard courses will have that information and be able to pass it on to the participants.
"We have a delivery partner scheme. Commercial providers running paddlesport activity will be able to put this message across to the participants that are actually using hire equipment."
For more about the campaign in Simon Flynn's name click here
For more about British Canoeing's updated guidance and pledges by some retailers to display it click here
For more about a pledge from Fatstick boards to supply two types of leash as standard - following Simon's death click here
For more about the Long Paddle's Brendon Prince's backing of Sam Foyle's campaign - and also his British mainland paddleboarding World Record -**click here**
For more official guidance from British Canoeing on leash safety click here