Duncan Hepplewhite returns to Paddlefast

After a couple of years representing Ovington Boats, Duncan Hepplewhite is returning to the company he started nearly 15 years ago – Sailingfast.

Duncan came up trumps at the recent RYA Scotland Awards Dinner, winning the ‘Coach of the Year 2015’ Award. On the back of this success, Duncan has received several requests to coach classes from GP14s to Musto Skiffs and everything in between. Combined with a desire to spend some more time at home with the family, Duncan has decided to take up the various coaching opportunities as they arise.

Originally called Scottish Sailing, Duncan founded the business in 2002 when he was just starting out as a coach. Initially set up to provide spares and clothing to dinghy sailors at the various events around Scotland, the business quickly grew to include boats (including Laser and Topper) and other brands (North Sails One Design, UV Covers, Black Diamond, Queensport Hikers).

21st Century working!

More recently, as wife Emma came on board in the last couple of years, the business rebranded to the more inclusive Sailingfast and haven’t looked back. Only last year they launched new business venture Paddlefast to capitalise on the popularity of stand-up-paddleboarding (SUP). At sailing events up and down the country, you will find Duncan coaching on the water and Emma out on a paddleboard watching the racing (or taking Alexander from rib to rib looking for banter, giggles and treats!).

Sailingfast and Paddlefast are delighted to have Duncan back at the helm, bringing with him his many years of experience in the marine industry both on and off the water. If you would like to take advantage of his award-winning coaching skills or in depth marine knowledge please contact us.