by Amanda Rigney
SirenSurf.com
This past summer Judy Coates swept a field of over 600 entrants in the Athleta and Siren SUP contest to win a Siren Sojourn stand up board and paddle. Despite some stiff competition, Judy’s passion for fitness, zest for life and outgoing attitude shone through, convincing us, and the Athleta community, that she was our girl! In her entry, Judy told us of her dedication to fitness, her first SUP experience and how, at 74 years old, she’s proof that SUP isn’t about age — it’s about attitude.
With submissions limited to just 100 words, we were left wanting to know more about this inspiring woman… What’s it like in her part of Texas? Where’s her favorite place to SUP? Her typical routine for staying fit? Does she follow a special diet? Where does she draw her inspiration from? Lucky for us, Judy gave us a glimpse into life in Texas:
My home is a Texas ranch, with five longhorn steers and a great dane dog named Walt. I have a big pond (or tank as we call them in Texas) that is my most used SUP body of water, although my favorite place to paddle board is on the ocean at South Padre Island, Texas. That is where I was first turned on to this wonderful sport.
This is truly the perfect activity for any age if you have a sense of balance and are somewhat coordinated. I fell a few times when I first started trying to get up on the SUP, after that it was smooth paddle boarding all the way. I have been blessed with a healthy body and a burning desire to stay fit. This goes way back, so I have tried a lot of different exercise routines – at this age I seem to have found my “sweet spot”. I love walking every day, Pilates with ball twice a week, weight lifting three times a week and paddle boarding as often as I can.
I watch what I eat and enjoy lots of organic fruits and vegetables. I try to be grateful for every moment God has given me, I am a joyful Believer. My life is very full with precious family and friends. No complaints and no regrets! Athleta skirts and tops are my favorite running around clothes. I love the fabrics, fit and the look. So cool on the Siren Sojourn – it’s the best!
Thank you Judy for sharing a bit about yourself! You’re an inspiration and testament to the benefits of healthy living, and we’re proud to have you as a ambassador for Siren SUP and Athleta.
Judy, you are amazing. I love these pictures of you. I have a goal! Thanks for sharing and congratulations on winning the board!
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I am 43 and will be taking my first SUP lesson in 2 weeks in Wilmington, NC. I had been looking for a competitive sport that I could do for many years to come, and something I could also share with my friends and family in more liesurely settings.
I really have a good feeling about it, especially after reading about Judy! And I will add South Padre Island to the growing list of places to explore on my new paddleboard once I get proficient!
Thanks for the inspiration. -Irene
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Thank you for sharing Judy! Great pics and looks like lots of fun, but I have to ask…. Have you tried to get your dog out on the board too? I have a shepherd and considered taking him out to try it on still water. Great Danes are a bit larger, and was wondering how that worked out. I have done some searching online, and seen that it is possible, but more of a workout!
Thank you- Lisa
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I am 56 and when I first read Judy’s entry, I printed it and placed it on my cube wall where I can see it everyday I come to work. It’s a reminder for me that having birthdays doesn’t have to be about getting old; rather, a celebration for entering new year of exploration.
Way to go Judy!
Thanks for reminding me that when something becomes too challenging to do, there will always be something else to move on to!
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Judy, you are a wonderful role model! Thank you for sharing your story with us. It’s a reminder to us that birthdays are to be celebrated, not avoided. Deeply thankful!
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Judy – you are a wonderful inspiration for all of us! I LOVED reading your story. Best wishes to you, and Keep on going!
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Judy~What an inspiration you are! I’ve been wanting to try surfing for ever, but stand up board and paddle is a great alternative as well and one I can relate to having been a former dancer with a good sense of balance, I think. I now walk, run, bike, do yoga, weights and stretch (and Dance, of course!) I can also see doing this sport for the rest of my life. Congratulations on your win, and again, you’re a wonderful inspiration!
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Judy—you will certainly be on my mind in two weeks when I try SUP for the first time. I’ve been using Suzie Cooney’s SUP routine ever since her post appeared and am incredibly excited to finally ride on the water. And thanks for demonstrating that age is just a number.
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Judy….my mom will be 74 later this year, and super active just like you. She really wants to try SUP and I am pushing her to go for it. I even found places for her to try it in N.California, and offered to go with her. I have forwarded your post.
To All of You: I just tried this sport myself 2 weeks ago in Marina Del Rey (I’m 51). It’s AWESOME!!!! My first paddle included leopard sharks and sea lions. On paddle number 2 I had a giant sea lion go under my board. Yes, a little scary, but so grounding to be in tune with nature.
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Aloha Judy! Finally some lovely photos of you. I was one of the judges and we all agreed that you are our inspiration. You look great in the Athleta wear and I’m sure Walt is happy for you too!
If ever on Maui, look me up and we’ll go SUP together!
Warm regards,
Suzie Cooney
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Congratulations! You are an amazing and inspiring person, and I am glad you won the SUP contest!!
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