If you’re into SUP, then you’ve probably heard of Ryan James, champion SUP paddler from the U.K.

Ryan has been in the water all his life, starting as a competitive swimmer at age 4, and by the time he was 18 was swimming on a scholarship in the U.S.

After collegiate swimming Ryan trained in cycling and running and became an elite triathlete, having joined the GB squad for his age group, and turning pro in 1998. He competed in international triathlons, including two World Master and National Championships.

Following a shoulder injury, Ryan turned to stand-up paddling as a sport he could do while recovering from surgery. Ryan caught the SUP bug and now competes at a top level, earning podium positions since 2010.

Ryan uses ZRE Stand-Up paddles and is a ZRE sponsored athlete.

Text and photos adapted from this article at www.asisupuk.com.