James ‘Pringle’ Bebbington
Hometown:
Glazebury, Near Warrington in the North West.
Where did you last paddle?
The wave below the Dam in Frieira, Spain.
Where will your next big boating mission take you?
Well, we’re out in Spain/ Portugal at the moment and will be touring around the good playspots and rivers accross Europe all Spring/ Summer and competing in various races and events.
However our next real mission will be to the Whitewater Grand Prix to be held in early May in Quebec, Canada. The whitewater should be huge and its definitely the trip/ event that I’m really excited about this year. You can check it out on http://www.whitewaterworldchampionships.com/index.php
Do you have a favourite spot/drop/rapid/move?
My favorite wave would be High Tension on the Gathineu in Quebec or Buseater on the Ottawa river both in Canada.
Favorite place to kayak as a whole would be the White Nile in Uganda for the easy lifestyle, warm weather, and world class paddling.
Favorite rapid would be Itanda at a high flow but the one that got me most excited would be Widow Maker at a very low flow.
Favorite move would be Airscrew on a wave and Space Godzilla link to Phonics in a hole…
What paddling trip should everybody make at least once?
Get in your Car/ Van and drive out to paddle all over the best spots and rivers in Europe for 6 months and see what you can find.
What advice do you have for anybody wanting to take their paddling to the next level?
For freestyle I think you need to spend time in your boat as much as possible in good features with easy eddy access and go and work on all the moves you want to learn intensively. For the UK holes at Hpp in Nottingham is ideal or for waves Hurley is very good practice, but to really push your wave kayaking forward I highly recommend a trip to the White Nile in Uganda for a couple months.
Whatever you do don’t be too serious with it though. Don’t take the fun out of it! You will improve best when your enjoying what you do.
Who are your paddling heroes?
I would say I don’t to make heroes for myself now, but when I was younger I was really inspired by EJ, Steve Fisher, Billy Harris & from the Uk Cheesy, Andy Phillips & Dicky Chrimes.
Currently, EJ impresses me for his continued drive & motivation and ability to win even in his 40′s. Peter Csonka’s powerful style on a wave and dedication in a boat gives me good inspiration. Anthony Yaps dynamic style really influenced me & Rush Sturges for his amazing productivity with promoting kayaking.
All time favourite piece of Palm kit?
The new Harlequin Fuse Cag. When I first saw a picture of it I knew it was the one for me, it looks amazing! (especially with my boat).
