Paddling Enthusiast Takes to Teaching

Ed Lawlor is an instructor, and his classroom is on the water.

Lawlor is owner of Peace-Love-Paddle, a new local business that specializes in canoe and kayak paddling instruction and training. He coaches clients himself and also employs contract instructors.

Peace-Love-Paddle aims to teach clients to paddle efficiently and safely, Lawlor said.

Lawlor, 52, grew up on the water and currently lives along the Pithlachascotee River in New Port Richey. He’s lived in Pasco County since the 1970s and has worked as a lineman for Progress Energy since 1980.

He also worked as a nature photographer and would paddle out to get shots of nature.

He finds that paddling is a “pathway to nature’s beauty.” You can see manatees, dolphins and other aquatics from your vessel.

Lawlor started “seriously” paddling four years ago. He started going to symposiums and learning to be a coach.

“The more I learned, the more I wanted top pass that knowledge on,” he said.

He’s paddled in waters off the shores off Pasco and Pinellas counties. He’s also ventured further abroad for excursions to the Atlantic Ocean, Lake Champlain, the Everglades and bodies of water in England and Wales. 

Now, paddling is his business, and he is hoping it will grow. He first started accepting clients a couple months ago.   ‘

He still works at Progress Energy, too.

Lawlor is certified as a coach with the British Canoe Union and the American Canoe Association.

Lawlor likes paddling off Green Key and Honeymoon Island.

He finds paddling relaxing; it gives him a chance to think. He also likes the freedom it gives.

“It’s a real freedom,” he said. “It can be whatever you want it to be.”

His business offers instruction to novices and experienced paddlers alike. Lawlor also organizes trips. You can find out more about Peace-Love-Paddle at its official website. Lawlor can be contacted at 727-514-3850.

You'll also be able to join Lawlor for paddling demonstrations at Pasco EcoFest, a multi-day festival Nov. 10-12 that puts a spotlight on West Pasco parks and natural spaces. Stay tuned for a schedule of all EcoFest activities.