Inspirational Woman: Cate Rogers

October 16, 2012 |

Author Paddle Diva

Cate Rogers is the most committed and passionate women on the East End when it comes to SUP. I was fortunate to spend some time with her this September as we have enjoyed quieter paddles, with a smaller group of participants, allowing us time to catch up from summer and bond anew over our mutual love for the sport. When Cate first came to Paddle Diva, she never interacted with the water, other than looking out at it and thinking she’d never have any sort of connection to the oceans other than a nice view. She had previously dedicated herself to losing the 100 extra pounds she had accumulated over the years and was figuring out how to turn her life around — and she did it!

My weight loss was a result of my changing my eating habits and not through surgery. I think many women have been convinced they need to undergo surgery in order to conquer a food addiction. But losing the weight was only one component of my becoming healthier. Stand up paddling gave me the opportunity to be physically active and connect to my inner strength in a way I never thought possible.

Losing the weight and coming to Paddle Diva was just the first step of Cate’s new life – all after she turned 50 years old! Because of stand up paddle boarding, Cate is stronger at 55 than she has ever been!

Paddle Diva's Inspirational Woman: Cate Rogers

Cate Rogers, far right, is one of Paddle Diva’s Inspirational Women!

Cate is happiest when she is out on the water paddling. She’s in love with the bays and the ocean and has seen parts of the East End that she would never have discovered on foot. She has an amazing spirit and is always willing to help out when we need an extra hand! Recently she joined me in my 20-girl SUP lesson with Wagner College’s Water Polo team, and she is often spotted “tagging along” on a lesson with one of my instructors and helping them herd the group. Cate’s enthusiasm for SUP is infectious, especially among new paddle board students.

Cate joined us on a retreat last winter, and she still raves about the time she had, the people she met and the strength she gained as she conquered the ocean SUP sessions we offer on our Rincon, Puerto Rico SUP/Yoga retreat. Intelligence, positivism and creativity are just some of Cate’s amazing inspirational attributes, the best way to learn more about her is to meet her and paddle with her. She always says yes to paddling, so just send her an invite! She’ll be there in no time, paddle board, lifebelt and leash, smiling ear to ear!