All in SUP
It’s easy to forget that Manhattan is an island with incredible waterways and a thriving paddling community. Over the past two decades, the Hudson River in NYC has become my paddling playground. Somewhat of a sanctuary, it offers a mini-escape from the hustle of fast-paced city life and a chance to enjoy Mother Nature’s urban edge. The fisheye’s view of the NYC skyline and Statue of Liberty is a sight to remember.
A New Yorker braves the cold to paddleboard on the Hudson River
Stefani Jackenthal drops her paddleboard in the river, steps on and chills. The air temp is near freezing. The water, 36 degrees.
But despite the cold, standup paddleboarding is a comfort to Jackenthal, the way she copes with all the COVID-19 craziness of the past year — the social distancing, the masks, the changes in her business, NTS Wine Tasting.
The beaming morning sun warmed my tanned shoulders as waves gently crashed behind me. While standing in a huddle for the race briefing, some competitors waxed the shaft of their carbon paddles for better grip. Others applied sunscreen. I restlessly snugged the straps on my PFD, trying to quell my excitement and angst.
Late in the summer, I was in the Finger Lakes wine region for a very fun detox to retox exploration. I visited terrific wineries, crafting world class wine - and a distillery - on Seneca Lake. Between swirling and sipping, I squeezed in some SUPping and cycling to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
For fun in the sun, there’s no need to escape cities. Instead, wander beyond the crowded concrete sidewalks and tall buildings of America’s urban jungles to their deep blue harbors and sparkly waterways.
There, you’ll find kayaking, whale-watching, jet ski jaunts and many more aquatic adventures. Speedboats get the adrenaline pumping, while stand-up paddleboarding presents time for serenity.
This winter, I spent several days paddling my SUP on the frosty Hudson River, NYC.
