Publish date: 2 October 2023
Earlier this year, we introduced the West London Get Fit (WLGF) campaign. WLGF is a dedicated initiative aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing within our community in West London. It brings together our staff and patients through activities such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, and more, fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie and wellness.
Throughout the campaign, we’ve been sharing active stories from our staff to inspire and motivate others to be part of the West London Get Fit community. This week, we spoke to Jeppo, a self-proclaimed water enthusiast who's navigating the winding currents of the Thames River. As part of our West London Get Fit campaign, we asked him more about his kayaking adventures...
Back in 2012, Jeppo decided to embark on a journey down the Thames with an inflatable kayak. Little did he know, a yearly license was needed, especially if you planned to pass through those manned locks. Undeterred, he embraced the challenge and soon upgraded to a 14ft polycarbonate touring kayak. Week after week, he'd paddle his way through 10 to 15 miles, even conquering two sessions of a whopping 35 miles. And if that's not enough, he'd camp out under the stars, stowing away his equipment after a day's adventure.
For Jeppo, kayaking on the Thames isn't just a pastime; it's a form of therapy. It's a workout for the upper body and cardiovascular system, but it's also an opportunity to meet fellow water enthusiasts and delve into the rich history surrounding the river's bridges, buildings, and people.
Around 2017, it dawned on him that he'd conquered most of the Thames. So, he set a new goal: to paddle the entire length of the river, from the quaint town of Cricklade, Gloucestershire, down to the Thames Barriers in London. Armed with a trusty river map, he crisscrossed between these areas, ticking off miles as he went.
By 2019, he'd conquered approximately 135 non-tidal miles of the Thames, which even included a daring paddle through central London from Battersea to the Thames Barriers with the London Kayak Company. Thinking safety first: he even obtained his marine radio license through a course in Southampton, just to be doubly prepared.
As if all this weren't enough, Jeppo's journey caught the eye of a documentary crew working on "The Liquid Highway," a series about those who live, work, and thrive on the water. Rubbing shoulders with the likes of Ed China, Charlie Quirk, and Ben Fogle. Although it's yet to hit UK screens, you can bet Jeppo's adventures will make for some captivating viewing!
Jeppo's winning illuminated kayak
Then came the curveball - the dreaded lockdown. Health issues, including frozen shoulders, meant minor surgeries and a temporary pause on Jeppo's watery adventures. But since this September, he’s been gliding back into his kayak. He’s wowed spectators at the Henley-on-Thames boat illumination Charity event, snagging the Best Boat of the Parade title with his dazzlingly illuminated vessel [pictured right]. And just a week later, he clinched the runner-up spot in the unpowered category at Bourne End, Buckinghamshire.
Looking ahead, he’s got his sights set on rebuilding his strength and conquering the final stretch from Teddington lock to Battersea early next year. we wish him the best of luck!
To catch a glimpse of his glowing kayak, be sure to check out the Henley Herald's feature here.