News

A joint statement from Palm and Pyranha said:

 

“It is with immense sadness that we announce that our friend and ambassador Bren Orton is no longer with us.

 

“It has been reported that Bren's body was recovered yesterday (30th May) in Lago Maggiore, Italy, following a tragic accident on the nearby River Melezza on the 16th of May.

 

“The outpouring of love and support from the paddling community since Bren went missing has been extraordinary. This support has been a profound source of strength for all of us, especially for his family and close friends.

 

“Sending our love to our paddling family at this time.”

 

Bren was a renowned professional kayaker, known for his distinct freestyle tricks on huge waves and waterfalls across the world.

 

After starting kayaking at the age of nine, following a school trip, Bren fell in love with the sport, starting his global adventures by paddling on the White Nile in Uganda aged 16.

 

Bren did compete internationally, representing the GB Freestyle team at the 2015 World Championships in Ottawa, making the final in the men's kayak.

 

A trailblazer, Bren's true passion was exploring and running waterfalls, capturing many of his exploits on video, shared across social media to his fellow paddlers and followers.

 

He rose to prominence in 2018, after completing the descent of the Big Banana Falls in Mexico. The 128 foot fall was the second highest descent made by a kayaker.

 

Ashley Metcalfe, CEO of Paddle UK said:

 

“A huge loss to the paddlesport community, Bren Orton’s trailblazing achievements in freestyle and paddling adventures across the world have made a huge impact.

 

“Without question, he will be remembered as one of our sport's greatest ever ambassadors.

 

“On behalf of our members, staff and the Board of Paddle UK, I would like to send my condolences to Bren's family, friends and fellow paddlers.”