Ryemarkable Joie Cooney & The Dolphins!

What inspired you to start paddle boarding, and how did it grow into a paddle boarding group?

I had been thinking about paddleboarding for a while because I love to explore — I was curious to see more than what’s visible from land. Then COVID hit, and I really needed to get out of the house.

I reached out to Kassie Souply for guidance. She was part of a small group who called themselves the Mermaids, and she walked me through everything: how to buy a board, what to wear, and what to expect. She assured me no one had ever fallen off their board when paddling with her — but of course, on my very first outing in early spring, the wind kicked up to 14mph and splash — into the Sound I went!

Not long after, another Rye mom posted that she was looking for paddle boarding buddies. I started a WhatsApp group, and we merged some of the original Mermaids with a bunch of enthusiastic newcomers — or as we affectionately call ourselves, the Dolphins!

How does being on the water help you - physically, mentally, or emotionally?

There’s something magical about being out on the water. Floating just off the coast and looking back at Rye feels a bit like being an astronaut gazing at Earth — peaceful, detached, and perfect. From that vantage point, the everyday noise fades away: no leaf blowers, no traffic, no turf field debates — just the quiet beauty of our town.

Paddle boarding brings me a deep sense of calm when I’m alone, but I also love the camaraderie that comes with being out there with friends. We catch up, laugh, vent, and — naturally — solve all the world’s problems from our boards. Of course, it’s great exercise (burning 300–700 calories an hour, depending on the conditions), but more than that, it’s an opportunity to embrace new challenges and find joy in nature.

Any member can post in our What's App Group, but a few of us are particularly tuned into the wind and tide and will often rally others for a paddle. Sometimes it’s spontaneous, sometimes planned in advance. Edith Read is a frequent launch spot — though not so fun at low tide (just ask Eliza Harris!). Weekday mornings often mean early paddles to a bell or channel marker for a quick swim before work. On weekends, if conditions are right, we’ll plan longer trips — sometimes even a sunrise or full moon paddle.

Do you have any favorite memories with the group?

We’ve launched from Milton Harbor, circled Parsonage Point, explored Rye Beach, and even paddled up the brook to Rye High School. One of my favorite routes is from Edith Read to Captain’s Island, which we do a few times each summer when the wind is calm. We’ve also had some adventures — like the time Lisa Lieberman and I nearly got blown to Pelham when the wind unexpectedly hit 30 mph despite the calm forecast. Or the time we explored Greenhaven's Van Amringe Millpond and barely made it out before the tide trapped us behind the sluice gate.

What advice would you give to a mom who is curious about trying paddle boarding for the first time?

Here are some tips:

Getting Started

Basic gear includes:

• Board (inflatable or hard)

• Paddle

• Leash

• Personal flotation device (PFD)

• Water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (we like Goodr), and clothing you don’t mind getting wet

• Waterproof case for your phone/keys OR leave on shore

• Water shoes (recommended)

• Sense of humor

Beginner Tips

• Always go out with a buddy.

• It’s normal to feel nervous about deep or dark water — you’ll get used to it.

• You will fall in.

• Practice getting back on your board in deep water — better to do it calmly than in a panic.

• There’s no elegant way to get back on — think clumsy sea lion. Embrace it.

• Ideal conditions: wind under 10 mph. Paddle into the wind first so it’s at your back on the return trip

• There is an 8-ft difference between high and low tide in the Sound. Check the tide before you go out and stay alert for rocks.

• Always face waves head-on to maintain balance.

• You can paddle on your knees if you can't stay upright - no shame!

Gear

Inflatable paddle boards (from Amazon or Costco) are great for beginners and easy to store. Hard boards are faster and more stable, but bulkier. Most of us end up with…well, several! Lightweight carbon paddles are great for those with shoulder issues or for longer outings, but they are pricey. The best deals on paddle gear come at the end of the season. Local facebook marketplace listings are a great source for boards.

Want to learn more? Contact Joie at Joiecooney@yahoo.com