For Round II of the newly launched PLAY-OFFS, we picked a handful of community members and paddled over to the lovely suburb of Richmond-upon-Thames for a break from the city.

With the assistance of our friends at Salomon and GORE-TEX we booted everyone up, strapped them into a life jacket and slid them into a kayak. For many it was a first-time affair and for some, claiming they were seasoned veterans (not naming anyone that capsized) we set off at golden hour for a scenic row across the narrow Thames and onto a wholesome pub dinner at the White Swan.

Although intended as a peaceful float down stream, we saw the competitive nature of some emerge seemingly trying to race nowhere, with others cooly taking it all in trying to keep the water out of their kayak and most importantly out of their mouths.

Once moored up at the pub we headed in for some traditional pub food, couple of non-alcoholic drinks (wink wink) and good conversation before heading out for an exciting return paddle under an amazing full moon.

It was an all-round sensational experience. Firstly, for getting people to experience something they may never have done before. Secondly for introducing people to a brand they may not have been accustomed to but are now newly converted. Lastly and most importantly doing what we love to do here at HQ, bringing people together.

It was an all-round sensational experience. Firstly, for getting people to experience something they may never have done before. Secondly for introducing people to a brand they may not have been accustomed to but are now newly converted. Lastly and most importantly doing what we love to do here at HQ, bringing people together.

Big shout out to Salomon, Goretex and Back of Beyond Adventures for hosting and taking good care of all involved, and to @mearakallista for capturing the incredbile evening.

On to Round III…get your paddles out that’s all we are saying !!!