Kanda Kelsey James decided to manufacture equipment for LandSUPing, an emerging sport which is essentially paddle boarding on land.

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kamloops businessman Kanda Kelsey James had some extra time on his hands and a passion for board sports.

He decided to manufacture equipment for LandSUPing, an emerging sport which is essentially paddle boarding on land.

"When I was living in Australia, there were actually quite a few people who were using push sticks on their longboards," James said.

Using the push stick on a longboard allows for deeper turns, better stability and a tool to gain momentum on cement the same way you would with a paddle through the water.

James created the company E8 LandSUPs and began working on a board design. He then handcrafted the bamboo boards, sourced the wheels online and fashioned the push sticks with rubber attachments on each end.

For those who enjoy paddle boarding or snowboarding, LandSUPing is a fun alternative you can do anywhere with flat ground.

"One of the things I definitely want to see happen with LandSUP is to get more of a community (here)," he said. "People can meet up and we can go for group exercises or runs along the riverside."

FILE PHOTO.

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

Like paddle boarding, LandSUPing activates the core for balance and the upper body using the push stick. To turn, riders simply tip their feet and tilt the board from side to side, using the push stick for balance on sharper turns.

James designed his boards to be a little wider and longer than typical longboards. This allows the rider to take a paddle boarding stance, planting both feet parallel to each other, facing forward and using the push stick on either side like a paddle.

This stance makes balancing a little tricky, so beginners may opt for a snowboarding stance, placing their feet shoulder width apart lengthways on the board and using the push stick on one side.

For those unaccustomed to the sport, a helmet and protective gear is recommended. 

Now that the equipment production is nailed down, James plans on making more boards to sell in the future.

To purchase a LandSUP board and push stick, send an email or call 250-899-5223.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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