Mario La Mastra’s SUP Progression with Nika Paddle Surf Camp

We are delighted to welcome 48 year old Mario La Mastra, an accomplished Italian SUP surfer and racer, to share his journey and experiences with us. Starting his stand-up paddleboarding journey casually in 2010, Mario has evolved into a dedicated competitor, driven by a deep passion for the sport. Over the years, he has attended five Nika Paddle Surf Camps – in Peniche, Portugal and Taghazout, Morocco –  which have played a crucial role in refining his SUP Surfing and SUP Racing skills and boosting his confidence on the water. Today, Mario will provide us with insights into his background, the unique atmosphere of the camps, and the invaluable benefits of training under the guidance of Leonard Nika. Join us as we dive into Mario’s experiences and learn why he believes the Nika Paddle Surf Camp is an essential experience for SUP enthusiasts.

Can you tell us a bit about your background in stand-up paddleboarding and some of your key achievements in the sport?

I started stand-up paddleboarding casually in 2010, mainly during vacations for coastal explorations with my family. By 2017, I ventured into amateur SUP races and became more involved with the sport year-round. My journey in competitive SUP racing began in 2023, driven by friends’ encouragement and a newfound passion for competing. This led me to seek advanced training to hone my skills, starting with my first camp with Nika Paddle Surf Camp in 2023.

How many Nika Paddle Surf Camps have you attended, and could you describe the experience, atmosphere, and content of each camp?

I’ve attended five Nika Paddle Surf Camps: two focused on private coaching for both SUP surfing and racing in Peniche, and three advanced camps, one in Morocco and two more in Peniche. Each camp offered a tailored approach that perfectly matched the skill levels and needs of all participants, providing both challenging and supportive environments. The camps in Morocco were especially enriching, set against the vibrant, culturally rich backdrop of Taghazout, which offers a variety of excellent surf spots.

Why do you think attending a Nika Paddle Surf Camp is a good idea for SUP enthusiasts, and how has training with Leonard Nika personally benefited you?

The camps are beneficial for both SUP beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Training under Leonard Nika’s guidance, I’ve gained invaluable insights into wave handling and race tactics, significantly enhancing my confidence and competence in the water. The video analysis and personalized feedback sessions were crucial for recognizing and correcting my technique.

Could you share some insights into the progress you’ve made over the five camps you attended, and how each camp contributed to your development?

Through these camps, I have seen remarkable improvements in my SUP surfing and racing techniques. Each camp contributed uniquely to my development, from refining my paddle strokes to mastering wave maneuvers. The video clinics and comprehensive feedback have helped me pinpoint areas for improvement and celebrate my progress.

What are your thoughts on the Nika Paddle Surf Camp locations special for SUP?

Both locations offer unique SUP experiences; Peniche has a variety of surf conditions suitable for technical training and race preparation, while Morocco offers long rides and scenic paddles along its coast. The Moroccan camps also incorporate local culture into the experience, making each session memorable beyond just the technical learning.

My favorite aspect of the Peniche camp is its stunning location and the array of available surf spots, which cater to various skill levels. The camp’s atmosphere is always welcoming, with top-notch facilities and an inclusive, community-focused approach that enhances the learning experience. In Morocco, the camps take advantage of the region’s unique wave conditions and beautiful scenery, providing a different but equally enriching experience.

How do you find the pricing of the Nika Paddle Surf Camp packages? What additional services do you get?

The pricing of Nika Paddle Surf Camp packages is very competitive, considering the quality of coaching, accommodation, and additional services like daily nutritious meals, yoga sessions, and access to spa facilities. The holistic approach to SUP training ensures that each participant gets the most out of their investment, not only in terms of skill improvement but also in personal health and well-being.

Find out more about Nika Paddle Surf Camp here:
www.nikapaddlesurfcamp.com/