Blake Carmichael is the winner of the 2023 Last Paddler Standing endurance event, where he paddled for a record-breaking 50 hours. He completed this just a few months after also winning the solo men’s division of the 80 mile Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis from the Bahamas to Florida. In this episode, Blake shares his journey in stand up paddle boarding, going from beginner to ultra long distance paddler in just a couple of years. We learn about Blake’s recent paddle across the state of Florida to raise awareness about water pollution on marine ecosystems and his campaign for clean water. Blake also shares insights on the physical and mental challenges of these ultra long-distance challenges, and the strategies he uses to stay focused and motivated. Blake emphasises the importance of gratitude, meditation and mindfulness. Gratitude teaches us to appreciate the small things in life, and he explains how it helps him to keep pushing through challenging moments on the water. Blake also discusses his preparations for 2024 races and we discuss training routines for different disciplines and tips for mental and physical preparation. IG @blakecarmichael web diveblu3.com watch Paddling 3 miles every hour Captains for Clean Water