Patterson sits on the Board on behalf of paddlers to communicate the athlete’s perspective, giving the athletes a clear voice to influence how the sport will grow: “I’m stoked to have the opportunity to listen to paddlers and give our input on what we feel are the best ways grow sport for the WPA, the athletes and our sponsors” says Patterson.

Patterson joins current board members Mike Muir, David Lester, Billy Whitford, Dan Van Dyck, Byron Kurt, Dez Blanchfield, Reid Inoyue, Scott Sanchez and Ric Jones.

Q:  When did you first start paddling and on what type of board before you started SUP?

A: Started SUP surfing in Wrightsville Beach, NC during the summer of ’08 on a Gary Wilson EPS Quad SUP surfboard. As a newbie, I had an extremely frustrating & challenging experience in the surf the first time…the very reason I came back for more.

Q:  How did you get started in SUP?

A: My wife showed interest in the summer of ’09 and said she wanted to get SUP’s for the both of us…I knew right then that there was much more to this sport. Also with a surfing background, I found Stand Up to be just another extension of my surfing and found myself surfing more than ever on the most beautiful days with no one out.

Q:  What is an average training day like for you?

A: Get up (very) early in the morning & paddle anywhere from 6-9 miles, run afterwards 2.5-5 miles, resistance training and lots of stretching after the entire workout.

Q:  What goals do you have for yourself in the sport of SUP?

A: 1) Become a respected all around paddler  - Racing & PaddleSurf

2) To turn as many people on to the sport of SUP through positive face-to-face interactions and on water experiences.

3) Focus on training harder & smarter while still having fun!

Q:  What one tip would you give to someone aspiring to become a better paddler?

A: Paddle and paddle regularly because no other training replaces time on the water.

Q:  What do enjoy most about the sport of SUP?

A: The freedom to explore uncharted water as well. SUP community too…it’s what makes the sport so unique & powerful.

Q:  What are your goals for 2011?

A: 1) Place top 10 in the Elite Battle of the Paddle CA

2) Place in the top 3 of all East Coast events entered

3) Compete in more national/international SUP races in 2011

Q:  What makes your motor run and what turns it off?

A:  Motor revs when I get to hang with the Boardworks SUP family, its always great times where ever we are! Motor dies when I begin hearing excuses and too much talk. Just Paddle!

Q:  Who is your favorite athlete?

A: My father. His dedication and commitment as a 3x Ironman triathlete, one of the top longboarders in the world at 2 different times in his life, and raising a healthy family of five says it all. He’s now 58 years old and in his 2^nd year of competitive SUP racing and more stoked than ever!

Q:  What would you like everyone to know about North Carolina that they may not know?

A: Maybe one of the best places to paddle on earth…endless options. Calm flatwater channels & waterways, many uncrowded & perfect SUP surf spots, afternoon open ocean downwinders…with wildlife thriving all around you. Maybe I shouldn’t tell you that. Bring it…we’d love to show you around NC!

Q:  If you could lobby for one thing in the sport of SUP, what would it be?

A: With 100’s of new race paddlers arriving each year, we’re going to need to allow for diversity in the Elite divisions to keep it exciting & safe. All races need to include Elite Stock, 14’, and Unlimited divisions.

Q:  What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: Trash floating in the water on a perfect day of paddling

Q:  What is your favorite tunes while training?

A: It mostly Metallica & ASG some Lil Wayne & Eminem when its game on.

Q:  After a race, Beer or ______?

A: In a southern accent, “Cold Beer.” As good as it gets…is there really anything else?

Photo credit, Jody MacDonald.