We are Epic UK
Epic Kayaks UK has been established in the UK for over 10 years, supplying all four home nations. Our mission is to spread the word about the freedom and versatility of surfski. We aim to banish any mystery for entry level paddlers, open this world up to kayakers of all backgrounds (compatibility, not exclusivity), and help upgrading for those who have found their flow, and advancing skills for those with the racing buzz.
The Epic Community includes a network of partners and paddlers across the British Isles and beyond. Many of those we have met through, or inspired to go on to take part in Epic Adventures.
Jim Taylor-Ross MBE
Jim is the driving force behind Epic UK, with a multi-disciplinary canoeing, sailing and surf life saving background. He has represented GB in Ocean Racing, Wild Water Racing, Marathon, and Dragon Boat. His motivation comes from sharing his passion for the freedom and independence of being on the water, and in particular giving young paddlers the foundations on which to develop their own love of paddling.
Epic Kayaks UK supports up and coming paddlers at the start of their journey, as well as numerous charity challenges.
As the GB Ocean Racing Team Manager, a member of the British Canoeing Safety Advisory Board, he is a National Race Coach Tutor and previously sat on the British Canoeing Marathon Racing Committee, Jim has always encouraged the cross over between canoeing disciplines and has been highly influential in the growth of ocean racing and surfski in the UK.
Jim has also been known (occasionally) to sell boats.
Annabel Taylor-Ross
Annabel runs Jim, the office and the farm, but when the sun is out she will try to be on the beach. A self-confessed fair weather paddler, she is absolute proof that an Epic life is not just about racing, and that waves don't need to be huge to be enjoyed.
With a background in the military and later in international humanitarian aid, she moved into teaching Geography and PSHE. She's now concentrating (mostly) on Epic UK.