If you are on Instagram and like checking out whitewater paddling you probably have seen some of the images and videos posted by Cameron Forry. We have been following his paddling for sometime and have reposted many of Cameron’s videos on Social Media Saturday. We are absolutely delighted that Cameron agreed to take part in the Unsponsored Q&A series.
Could you tell us a little bit about you and your paddling journey?
I’m Cammy, I’m 24 years old and currently work in the offshore energy industry as a mechanical technician. I started kayaking when I was 7 after being dragged along to an open day.
Once I started, I never wanted to stop. I was going at least every Wednesday night and joined Eastwood and East Kilbride Kayak Club, where I got my first taste of whitewater on the River Teith and later at Pinkston Watersports when it opened in 2014.
I got into freestyle kayaking shortly after, and that became my main focus for a few years—at least until I could drive! Freestyle is defiently where I was able to build up alot of my skillset and of nothing else get a pretty bomber rolla nd be comfy in a hole. I was spending Monday, Tuesday, and Friday evenings at Pinkston, rain, snow, or shine, so I owe my dad big time for that.
I later got involved with the SCA (PaddleScot) freestyle events and committee, where I was reintroduced to Mark Mulrain, who had actually been one of my first coaches back in my flatwater days.
I studied at Strathclyde University for four years, mostly during COVID. I wasn’t the best student and ended up leaving in 2024 without a degree, as kayaking had pretty much taken over. I was working at Pinkston as an instructor and spending most of my free time on the water.
Through uni, I made some great mates like Ali Shapland who I’ve spent loads of time paddling with—both on local rivers and further afield.
Since learning to drive, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the west coast, doing dozens of laps of the classics. I’ve also been lucky enough to get on some less commonly run rivers like the Kirk Burn, Affric, and most recently the Taodail waterfalls.
I’ve been fortunate to paddle in Mexico as well, along with a few Alps trips across France, Italy, and Slovenia.
Where are you from and where do you live?
I’m originally from Glasgow, but I’ve recently relocated to Inverness, which in my opinion is the place to be for outdoor pursuits in Scotland.
What does a regular week at this time of the year look like?
If I’m not away at work, I’m usually keeping an eye on the weather forecast and hoping for rain. If it’s not looking good for kayaking, I’ll head out into the hills instead.
At this time of year, though, we’re into dam release season in Scotland, so there’s usually always something to paddle—it’s never too long to wait for water.
What did you focus on to become comfortable running big or complex rapids? What allowed you to progress your skills?
For me, it’s about finding a line, being happy with it, and committing to running it the way I’ve planned.
I also think it’s important to assess the risks properly—understanding consequences, where safety could be set, and how to minimise exposure. At the same time, I try not to spend too long overthinking things, as that can let doubt creep in more than it should.
Do you have any pre-paddling rituals to help calm your nerves or get you into the zone?
If it’s something big or I’m feeling nervous, I like wearing a mouth guard. It gives me a bit of peace of mind—probably more mentally than anything else—but it helps me feel more settled before dropping in.
When was your last swim? What has been your luckiest escape?
These two probably go hand in hand.
I got pinned underwater by a forking tree in the Braan Gorge when the water level was pretty high. As I flipped into it, I got caught around the chest. I managed to free myself by shifting the tree slightly, then climbed onto it, got out of my kayak, and made my way out of the river.
I was really glad to have a solid group around me that day. If the tree hadn’t moved, who knows what would have happened—it definitely wasn’t a pleasant experience. As Aaron likes to remind me, I’m a very lucky boy.
Where would you go if you could travel anywhere in the world to paddle?
Right now, the dream trip would be the Pacific Northwest and California. I’d love to make that happen sometime soon.
What message or top tip would you give to a young paddler who wants to progress in the sport?
Have fun and make as many memories as you can. Life will probably catch up at some point and take you off the water for a while, so make the most of the time you’ve got.
What paddling gear are you currently using?
I’m very fortunate to be supported by Immersion Research and Radical Rider. Mark has been a massive part of my kayaking journey, so I was buzzing when he offered to support me.
I use the Immersion Research 7Figure drysuit as my daily driver—it’s really comfortable and super durable. I also use the Immersion Research Royale spraydeck, a Sweet Rocker helmet, Astral Green Jacket PFD, and Astral Rassler 2.0 shoes.
Boat-wise, I paddle a Helectron freestyle kayak as well as a range of the Waka fleet through Radical Rider. I’ve been especially enjoying the Skuxx, Steeze, and Stoke recently, along with Kober Rebel paddles.
Many thanks Cammy!
Cameron can be found on Instagram and Youtube please check his socials out and give him a follow.
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