Meet Joe Paddler: Chris Dowling, Long Island, NY

 Where you were born and where you live now?

I was born in Jamestown, RI and after a brief stint in Vermont my family settled on the east end of Long Island. Greenport is where I call home with my wife, son and two coconut retrievers.

What is your occupation?

I am Yacht Broker and I own a SUP shop, One Love Beach.

Where do you SUP the most?

On the east end of Long Island.

What board do you ride?

I kind of have a problem but my primary board right now is a 14′ Boga Typhoon.

What paddle do you use?

Kialoa Hulu with the 6″adjustable Pro “T”.

Have you changed boards/paddles since you started? If so, why?

Yes.  When I started I had an all round but as I got more into it I realized that a touring board fit my paddling style better.  I have decreased width as well now that my balance improved and comfort level increased.

Where would you most like to SUP?

The bucket list is getting longer and longer!  I guess the top five destinations would be Alaska, the South Pacific, the Exumas, Cape Breton and Sweden.

Best piece of SUP advice you’ve gotten?

Wear a leash and a PFD.

Weirdest thing that’s happened to you while SUPping?

One spring a few years ago I hit a 55 gallon plastic drum on Long Island Sound.  After a lot of sweat I was able to get it on my board and paddled it 3 1/2 miles to the beach.

Favorite SUP nutrition? (During races/ during a long haul)

I usually will bring Clif Bars and GU on races or long paddles.  I always bring lots of water.

Favorite post-paddle nosh (snack/beer/recovery drink)

Beer is always a good start after a little water!

Your favorite non-paddle thing to do.

I grew up sailing.  That is something that I will never get out of my blood.

Who do you SUP with most often?

Jack Citera and  Shawna Macnamara probably have the best attendance records when it comes to paddling partners.  They are there whether it is 90 degrees out or we are hoping across ice flows in the winter.

What piece of SUP gear do you wish someone would invent?

Paddling equipment for people with physical disabilities.

What’s your biggest challenge with SUP?

Surfing.  I don’t get enough time to hit the waves.  I want to work on my downwinding skills.

What is your proudest moment in a SUP race or event?

Getting first place in my class and having all my friends get firsts in theirs too!

Tell us about the best friend(s) you made through SUP.

I have met more people through SUP than any other activity where I live. These are people that I know will always be there when I need them in my life.  The SUP community is quite incredible.

What’s your best SUP travel tip?

Call the taxi before you shove off!  Always call the damn taxi first!!!