Interview:
Peter Tranter
Photos:
Sal Montgomery,
Matt Blackwell
(www.facebook.com/
mattblackwell),
Iain McConnell
(www.turniptowers.
co.uk),
Aapo Halonen,
Jake Holland,
Dmitry Ermolov,
Georgina Preston,
Eli Castleberry,
Erin Bastian
and Dominic Glur.
Over the years we’ve featured Sal in quite a few expeditions from Russia to Chile – from white water to salt water. So we thought, in light of her recent TV fame in the ‘The last unrun river of Bhutan’, to catch up with Sal to hear what she thinks about this and that. So, over to one of the most popular kayakers out there and an inspiration to women everywhere…
An interview with… Sal Montgomery
Mighty Monty
Before we start – for those who have been living on mars, just let our readers know a little about yourself, background, etc.
My name’s Sal! I’m an outdoorsy type and am happiest when out adventuring with friends, although I do like the odd solo adventure too. When I’m not on the river, I can usually be found playing on the sea or in the mountains.
When did you first start kayaking?
I’d tried various watersports whilst away on Scout camp when I was younger and had loved every second of it, but it wasn’t until about ten years ago that I found out you could actually do things like kayaking all the time – you didn’t even have to be a Scout! Needless to say, I got pretty hooked on it!
You’ve recently become a TV personality, how did you get involved with, ‘The last unrun river of Bhutan’?
I’d just returned from a pretty amazing paddling season in South America, but had unfortunately sustained a serious shoulder injury during that time. I was back in the UK waiting for scan results and to find out if I was going to need surgery or not when I received a vague, crackly phone call from India. It was Daz Clarkson-King, with some exciting news! Over the next couple of weeks I had shoulder reconstruction, followed by intense rehabilitation, hoping that I could be ready in time for what would be a great adventure.
Tell us about one stand out moment in Bhutan?
When we finished our river descent and spent several hours scrambling up difficult, steep terrain with the entirety of the crew’s gear, a local family invited us in to their home. We sat on mats on the floor, around a cosy wood burning stove and feasted on some delicious hot tea and a traditional meal (as well as some questionable home-brewed spirit that had come from a jerry can). Although weary, everyone’s spirits were high. Especially when the ladies of the house, excitedly pulled us up and began singing local songs. We were all linked hand by hand in a circle around the room, as they tried to teach us their dance.
After a tough few days, everyone looked relaxed, happy and like they were having a lot of fun. It felt like a celebration, not only of completing our expedition but also of the bond that a small group of people had made in such a short time. These people, who I hadn’t known prior to the trip, had become very special to me and now felt like family. In that moment I felt incredibly appreciative.
A must watch @: https://uktvplay.uktv.co.uk/shows/expedition-with-steve-backshall/watch-online/6062262839001
What type of training do you undertake for expeditions?
I like to feel strong, with a decent amount of fitness before a big trip. Some days out on the river can be pretty full on, as well as long, so I figure the fitter and stronger I can be, then the longer I can continue working at a good level and hopefully make less mistakes due to tiredness.
You motivate so many paddlers but who motivates you?
First of all – thank you! It sounds corny, but I’m motivated to improve my personal abilities whenever I’m on the water with friends who are more skilled than me. In particular, my two friends Casey Bryant Jones and Eli Castleberry always look super smooth and stylish on the river, so I usually try to paddle more like them (with mixed success!).
Have you ever been scared and if not – what would it take?
I strongly believe a little bit of nervousness is essential for keeping you focused and on the ball. However, if you’re absolutely terrified, so much so that you can’t focus on the task, then you should probably walk that one!
If you could head anywhere in the world to paddle, where would it be and what appeals about that location?
Too many places! At the moment a lot of my interest is in exploring the lesser known locations, heading off the beaten track and having a real adventure.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to somebody thinking of packing it all in to become an adventurer?
Remember why you’re doing what you’re doing and make sure it’s for the right reasons.
When preparing for a multi-day expedition in challenging conditions – what are the qualities you look for in a fellow team mate kayaker?
It’s essential that everyone is able to work together and will naturally look out for one another. Things don’t always go to plan and you need to be with people that are able to adapt, stay cool and have your back. You’re also going to be spending a lot of time together, so fun, enthusiastic, have a sense of humour and being up for a bit of banter is essential!
What’s the most enjoyable encounter with wildlife that you’ve had whilst paddling?
Although they managed to stay well hidden, we did spot many traces of bears and tigers on the river banks whilst out in Bhutan. In fact, one of our camps had several fresh tiger prints and we even found half of the Himalayan mountain goat it had been feeding on, not too far from my tent the next morning!
Describe What’s it like being a part of the Pyranha team?
Awesome! Not that long ago it seemed like there wasn’t a huge amount of choice for smaller paddlers, but now there seems to be loads! And they’re actually really good boats! In particular I’m loving the 9RII and the Ripper (of course!). Pyranha are also just a great company to be involved with, they’ve been super supportive with allowing me try out a range of designs and are just cool, fun guys to go paddling with!
How’s the shoulder holding up now?
Really well thanks! My surgeon did an amazing job! I didn’t have a huge amount of time between coming out of the sling and going to Bhutan, so it was pretty intensive rehab but luckily all the work paid off and I haven’t had any big problems since.
What projects are you currently working on?
I’ve just returned from a month in Africa, so am currently spending a bit of time catching up with friends and family (as well as procrastinating from quite a substantial amount of life admin!), and will then start planning the next adventure!
Are there any issues that stops you sleeping at night?
Jet-lag! Haha, only joking. Like most outdoor enthusiasts, the subject of our planet’s future is extremely concerning. The effects we are having on our own habitat is saddening and terrifying. What we consider everyday routines, is threatening wildlife, nature and even our own existence. It’s great to see so many people actively trying to make effective changes, and I myself am trying to help by changing my ways and putting plans together for future projects. Watch this space…
What do you do to relax?
After a big trip, I love going for a nice long run in the countryside, followed by a hot shower and a big mug of coffee and a tasty breakfast, whilst reading or doing a bit of writing. That would probably be my ideal ‘down day’.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
I have no idea! As of yet I haven’t even made a plan for tomorrow!
Quickies
If you could paddle with anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be?
My friends!
Pick two celebrities to be your parents…
David Attenborough and Mary Berry (adventures and cakes)….although my own parents are pretty cool!
Which famous person would you most like to see play you in a film?
Someone fun, positive and a bit crazy!
Are you a bathroom/shower singer and if so what do you sing?
Yes for sure! Vance Joy- Riptide.
Facebook or Twitter?
Facebook.. I don’t really understand Twitter!
An ideal night out for you is?
It would involve close friends, a fire, lots of food and a clear sky full of stars.
What one luxury item would you take with you on a desert island?
A notepad and pen (and as much chocolate as I could physically carry).
What would I find in your fridge right now?
Blueberries and avocados.
If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?
Either a veggie thai red curry or a tonne of roasted veggies and potatoes.
What’s the most boring question you are often asked?
I’m often asked how I fund my adventures and lifestyle. To which the answer is always the same.. I work hard, so that I can play hard and firmly believe that adventures don’t need to be extravagant to be incredible. We are extremely lucky that nature’s playground is free for everyone to enjoy and it’s up to us how we choose to do so. That’s pretty awesome if you ask me!
If you could be a superhero for one day, what superpower would you choose and why?
To fly! Think of all the adventures you could scout out! And it would just be super fun!
Favourite sport’s team?
Nottingham Panthers (Ice Hockey).
Favourite film?
Pretty much any classic chic-flic!
Who are your kayaking buddies?
Two of my favourite people to paddle with are Casey and Eli. They’re super fun, encouraging and supportive, as well as incredible paddlers (I must also give a shout out to Chivs, Joe, Brandon and Kev, aka the East Lynn crew!).
What three words describe you?
To quote my friend Casey – ‘Like. A. Toddler’
Any final shout outs?
Too many! In particular I would like to thank Steve Backshall, Darren Clarkson-King and Sanna Handslip for taking a chance on me, despite having just had shoulder surgery. In addition to these legends, I would also like to add the rest of our amazing team – Aldo, Pringle, Bri, Graham and Nick, for such an incredible and extremely special trip.
Huge thanks Sal for taking the time out for this.
Home
