Joe is the inspirational little boy who touched people's lives around the country and beyond. His story of hope and fighting against all the odds with a cheeky smile has made what could have been the worse of times the best of times. His story continues to inspire individuals and business to do some…
This year’s event saw a footfall of over a thousand spectators for the second year running and nearly 400 paddlers of all ages and abilities taking part in the 200m, 1km fun paddle, 1km relays and the RNLI memorial cup to do their bit to raise money for some of the 20 charities now supported by the Joe Way appeal.
The weather was at its best as the town along with holiday makers turned out in force to support the annual fundraiser. Steel Appeal played on the beach as families enjoyed picnics and watched the action in a Caribbean atmosphere This year’s event saw a footfall of over a thousand spectators and over 300 paddlers of all ages and abilities taking part in the 200m, 1km fun paddle and the1km relays, to do their bit to raise money for some of the 20 charities now supported by the Joe Way appeal. The sunset sessions kicked off with Ben Sutcliff playing on the harbour stage, followed by The Strawdogs and then finishing in the rowing club with Jethro Baines which was a great show case for the best of Cornish music. Matt Way said “five years ago we had no idea how we would cope with the loss of Joe. However in the middle of the beach watching the hundreds of paddlers, listening to the music, watching our volunteers and seeing the thousand plus spectators it became clear to me that you learn to live with the loss with the help of others and we are extremely lucky to have so much support”.
Newquay Activity Centre's expert coasteer leaders lead the fundraising coasteer group towards Newquay's Gazzle near Fistral beach to leap into the cool Cornish seas. All coasteer participants paid £10 to enter and all proceeds will go directly towards helping young Newquay surfer Jaide Lowe fulfil her surfing dreams and represent her country.
Singer James Morrinson supports Joe's appeal
Surf and Music Gig raise money for Cornish Foundation The ETL international longboard competition was held for the second year running at Watergate Bay, the two star event on the tour was headlined by O’Neill and organized by local surfer Ben “Skindog” Skinner who has just returned from Ireland with the European title. The final saw a UK head to head with O’Neill team riders Skindog and Adam Griffiths battling it out in a close heat which saw Adam taking his first ETL win. Ben Skinner said “It’s been a great weekend although the conditions of the surf have been tough, all the sponsors of the event have done an amazing job and we have once again put on a great showcase for British surfing”. Ben skinner who is one of the ambassadors for the Joe Way Appeal which has raised £93,000.00 for 20 charities in the 3 years since Joe passed away also put together another Joe Way Appeal fundraising event to the weekend of surfing. The Phoenix Pub at Watergate hosted this years event and the line up was the best of Cornish music which saw Charlie Wingfield, Grey dog and Ben Sutcliff show the European visitors how vibrant the music and surf scene is in the UK. The money this year is being donated from Joe’s Appeal to the Matt Upsher foundation which was set up after the well know teacher and musician from Perranporth tragically died last year whilst surfing His Brother Tom spoke about his brother and introduced Grey Dog which is the Band his brother played with, Tom said "My brother had a soul that reached out to so many people, his passion and enthusiasm was infectious, and it is this spirit we hope to continue, with the work of the Matthew Upsher Foundation. We are delighted to have been invited to work with The Joy Way appeal, and are extremely thankful that the Foundation is the chosen beneficiary of tonight’s event. Its great to have the support of The Joe Way appeal, Ben Skinner and all of the people that have worked so hard to put together such a great event. It gives us all such a sense of positivity that we can come together and raise the awareness of the Foundation." Ben added “Matt taught me how to play the guitar and was a real soul surfer he is deeply missed so to be able to donate some money to his foundation is a real honour”. £1145.00 was raised with an auction and prize draw that saw great prizes from O’Neill Clothing and Wetsuits, Skinners ales, Perranporth signs, 100% organic and a local artist Martin Hawkes who donated a print on the day which was taken away by one of the French competitors. Matt Way Joe’s Dad said “It was a great night and we are really grateful for the generosity of all the Companies that gave such amazing prizes and the people who gave money. It was a really privilege to meet Tom and work with the musicians who all knew his brother. Steve Skinner did a great job with the auction and just as we thought it was all over a local guy donated £100 to have a surf lesson with Skindog”. For more information and to see the PODCAST from the gig go to www.joewaypaddle.co.uk
This summer Hendra also has Europe’s only mobile Flowrider, located on the park for the next 6 weeks. It is an exhilarating water-based ride suitable for thrill-seekers of all ages, which means we will be bringing some great waves to you over the Boardmaster’s event and all summer! The Flowrider as well as surf lessons at the UK and European champion’s Skindog surf school are discounted for Hendra guests or you can try both for just £35. You can enjoy this unique and fun experience from as young as 6 years old. Ben Skinner, of Skindog Surf School, said: “Hendra’s surf connection is really great for families. I know how important a good accommodation experience needs to be when you’re on holiday with your family, so this partnership with Hendra is ideal for people to stay at a high end holiday park whilst enjoying the relaxed feel of beach life. The Flowrider is another reason to come to Hendra; I’ve tried out the ride and it is a lot of fun and suits kids and adults of all abilities.”
Nike 6.0 boardshort bar is backing a Cornish fundraising appeal which was set up in memory of 4 year old Joe Way from Newquay. The boardshort bar is open for the next couple of months in the centre of Newquay and has been designed and fitted out by a local company. You can go in and see the latest Nike 6.0 surf tour information, have a free photo both experience which can be downloaded to your facebook page and design your own boardshorts on one of the apple Macs in the store. You’re shorts will ready for you to walk out with while you wait and it’s a great concept, rather than looking through racks of shorts you simple design what you want and away you go. Another great concept is the surf wax game which is a great fun. Its been designed for the store and you pay £2 to pull the leaver watch the wax drop through the 6ft Perspex enclosure hitting pins as it drops down. On the back of each bar of wax are the words “try again” or what prize you have won. For every purchase the full £2 will go to local Newquay based charity “The Joe Way paddle for life” which has raised over £92,000.00 in three years since the Newquay toddler passed away. Joes Dad Matt Way said “This is a great concept and we are really excited about being involved. At the opening party people where getting addicted to it, we are sure its going to be a great hit for adults and kids whilst raising money that will go back into the local community”. If you’re in Newquay and you want to have some fun or need to buy some wax then check out the Nike 6.0 store in Bank Street. Link to Nike 6.0 FB group http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/Nike6SurfUK
Newquay Mayor Andy Hannan linked up with local business Wavecrest scuba to see Newquay from a different perspective. Wavecrest Scuba is a PADI 5 star Instructor Development Dive company based just a few miles from Newquay, Cornwall's surf capital. Wavecrest offer a complete range of courses from trying out the sport in heated pools to the highest diving instructor levels. They offer a free transport service to dive sites and lunch so the whole family or groups can be catered for. They also operate a dive shop and hire business all run from the school which is based just outside of Newquay. Owner Diving instructor Mark Rayner and his team put the Mayor and his wife, Barbara through some intense pool training ready to then get them out in the open sea off the headland all in one day. Andy Hannan said ‘this was the first time Babs and I had ever tried scuba diving and I was a bit apprehensive at first but Mark and his team really put me at ease. I was amazed at how much gear you have to wear but once we got in the water the fun really started. The sea was really clear and I managed to see a few fish although I missed catching a glimpse of a spider crab that passed below. This is certainly something worth trying out if you enjoy swimming and being in the sea. Andy Hannan was joined by Paddle for life organiser Matt Way and Dean Woods who also made a trip to the sea bed with Joe’s banner which has been all over the world. Matt Way Joe’s Dad said “The training was really good, I’ve been trying to make the time to do this for years. This is the sort of experience locals should try its not just for holiday makers. We would like to thank Mark and his team who where also the first people to take a banner under water three years ago when we started the idea”.
Newquay Mayor rides the waves for charity Newquay Mayor Andy Hannan has raised more money for his chosen charity “The Joe Way Appeal” this time going to the Newquay surf life saving club. Joe Way, who was born with a rare genetic condition, was labelled a 'miracle boy' after surviving meningitis, a potentially deadly skin reaction, and numerous superbugs as well as complete organ failure. He died three years ago, after a rapid deterioration in health. His website has been set up to tell his story, raise awareness of his conditions and help raise money for 20 charities mainly at the now annual Joe Way paddle for life. The Loop Flowrider at Retallack resort and Spa hosted the UK championships this weekend attracting the cream of Europe’s flowriders and surfers. The team at the loop invited Newquay Mayor Andy Hannan to come up and try Cornwall's fastest growing extreme sport to help raise funds for his chosen charity the Joe Way appeal. Mayor Hannan was delighted to have the opportunity to raise funds this time for the Newquay surf life saving club and was joined by some of the members in a flow riding session. Andy Hannan said “This is a great facility and another example of how businesses can attract people to Cornwall. We had a great time and I would highly recommend this as a great family day out”. A raffle was held with surf lessons donated by the Quicksilver surf school at South Fistral Mayor Hannan will be at the Japanese car show at Hendra Holiday Park this Sunday which is raising money for Shelter box in aid of the people of the Japanese earth quake Matt Way Joe’s Dad said “we would like to thank the team at the flowrider for giving us this opportunity and their continued support with Joe’s appeal”. If you would like see the Flowrider PODCAST or read Joe’s story then go to www.joewaypaddle.co.uk for more information about the Flowrider go to www.retallackresort.co.uk
Newquay Surfer Tom Butler reclaimed the title of England's best surfer when he added a second English National Championships win to his growing list of accomplishments. In monstrous surf which saw the contest moved from Watergate Bay to Tolcarne Beach in Newquay, the talented local surfer surged ahead of competitors to win the Open division of the competition. Adam Griffiths, who is also based in Cornwall, was victorious in the Longboard contest. Despite the venue change, large close out waves were still order of the day and this still demanded that surfers had to ensure their wave selection was on form to enable themselves the opportunity to get the big manoeuvres which are then transformed into big points. First of the finals were the Longboarders and it was Newquay's Adam Griffiths who paddled into a wave that took him right across the beach and points to match, with a good scoring back up wave which pushed him ahead of the other three finalists. Reigning Champion Ben Skinner gave chase but even with a late charge in the dying moments of the heat he failed to overhaul Adam who claimed the deserved win. The Ladies final was initially controlled by Woolacombe's Lucy Campbell, but her early dominance wained as Anne Cecile and Hannah Harding began to exchange wave for wave but it was Anne Cecile's stronger and more powerful surfing that won the day. All eyes were now on the Open Final. Large waves with workable open faces rewarded the judges and spectators alike with spectacular surfing. Strong surfing with progressive manoeuvres were in abundance and even being claimed by the competitors. Gordon Fontaine surfing solidly throughout the day posted two six point rides but it was Tom Butler who on his back up wave pulled off three big turns and gave him the unassailable lead with two seven point rides. The heat drew to a close giving Tom his second English Champion title. Open results: 1st Tom Butler ( Newquay), 2nd Gordon Fontaine (Bournemouth), 3rd Micah Lester (Newquay), 4th Oli Adams (Newquay) Ladies: Ann Cecile (Brittany), 2nd Hanna Harding (Devon), 3rd Lucy Campbell (Woolacombe), 4th Rosy Ellis (South Hams) Longboard: 1st Adam Griffiths (Newquay) 2nd Ben Skinner (St Agnes) 3rd Zack Lawton (Croyde) 4th Ash Lawton (Perranporth) Charity rider Tom Butler claims English championship Podcast 2011
This year on the 7th May, to mark the passing of their son, Joe's Dad will be jumping out of a plane at 10,000ft to raise money for the Precious Lives Appeal, or one of the many charites listed on our donate page. If you would like to donate and help build Cornwall's first Hospice for children or to donate to one of the other charities we support click DONATE NOW
PODCAST with Ben Woods about sky diving on the Hold Day. We didnt jump this day so the jump will be coming soon with more podcasting from Dean Woods Photos from Matts jump in 2009 all other media from on the day
We are now the Newquay Mayor's chosen charity for the next year so let’s get some money coming in. If you would like the support of Newquay Mayor for your event then email acurtis@newquaycouncul.co.uk or info@joeway.co.uk
A green Western Greyhound double decker bus will advertise the Joe Way appeal and will be driving around its routes in Cornwall, bringing the Cornish toddlers story to new people. Western Greyhound is a Newquay-based family-run business that has been operating since 1998. It now runs an extensive bus network throughout Cornwall and into Devon, offering services which frequently connect together to provide excellent journey opportunities in the region.
Well here it is, the 2010 official Paddle for Life video. Please watch it and share with your friends, lets get Joe's Story even further out there. Thanks to all those who were involved...
2010 Paddle for life PODCAST Part 2 Interviews with Paddlers
Lots of Interviews with Dean Woods at this years 2010 Joe Way Paddle for Life Part 1
Live interview with BBC radio cornwall about the paddle.
The Official SKINDOG August bank holiday British Nationals Surf Camp Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay will host the Official SKINDOG British Nationals Surf Camp for family’s and couples who surf, in association with Oxbow and Relentless Adrenaline Activities, from the Friday 27th to Tuesday 31st August. Matt Way, Hendra’s Manager, said ‘Hendra provides an ideal base for family’s and couple’s who surf, enjoy the Quicksilver National surfing event, and prefer a more relaxed camping experience. It’s great to team up with Ben Skinner and the SKINDOG Surf School for our very own Surf Camp after such a successful Boardmasters event” Ben skinner said “The surf camp which starts at £15 per couple per night has a great relaxed feel which is great to introduce new people, kids and seasoned surfers to a great teaching experience, yet all the facilities non surfers want are available to keep the rest of the family happy. We have a BBQ you can cook your own food on whilst we design the right surf package for you as well as taster evenings from my family’s Cornish brewery” The offer is specially discounted camping, surf lessons, coasteering and the world famous wave rider at Retallack Resort. Ben Skinner his team of surf coaches, team riders, surfboard shapers and laminators will be available to give top surfing tips as well as organising surfing lessons! There will also be a shuttle bus service to and from the park to beaches and events, so campers will have a brilliant time’ The SKINDOG team also continued their support for the Joe Way Paddle for life by advertising the event at their marquee and Ben signed a RELENTLESS surfboard which is the on line raffle. The first surf camp on Newquay’s five star Park was such a success that the public will have another opportunity to enjoy everything Hendra has to offer along with the worlds best surfers creating a relaxed vibe for family’s and couples alike. Voted one of the UK’s Top 100 Holiday Parks 2010, Hendra is the one of the best located five star rated, family campsites for the Boardmasters Festival. The Surf Camp will occupy a dedicated area on the park and will be exclusive to families and couples only. For more info on the Surf Camp see www.hendra-holidays.com or call 01637 875578, for info on Ben Skinner and Skindog Surf School see www.skindogsurfschool.co.uk or call 07597021727
Dan and Lee talk about how thay raised £2725.00 with a cycle ride for charity
PODCAST with Joe's DAD about the Joe Way paddle board
Top surfer takes time out to talk about Joe's website and new board
Jason Gray PODCAST about Joe's Board and how the process works
PODCAST shaper Chris HArris talks about Joe's Board. A great insight to one of the best shapers
Ben Skinner interview about the Joe Way board and surfing
PODCAST interview with Matt Travis at the BLU comp
PODCAST interview with Joe Way team rider Louie Mavor at the BLU comp 26th June 2010
PODCAST interview with Bob Freshwater at the BLU comp 26th June 2010
PODCAST interview with James Parry at the BLU comp 26th June 2010
PODCAST interview with Ben skinner at the BLU comp 26th June 2010
Interview with Tom Butler at Watergate. Surfing with Kai Lenny, Skindog and supporting the Joe Way Paddle for Life
Joe Way's Dad Matt talking about meeting Kai Lenny and the support given by SKINDOG and the OXBOW team. PODCAST at Watergate bay
Mark from OXBOW supporting SKINDOG and Joe Way paddle
podcast with ben Skinner and Kai lenny at the SKINDOG surf school yesterday.
If all of Joe's supporters on Facebook donated £2 we could raise £4500.00 which would buy 5 boxes which would house and protect over 50 people for months please goto Joe's shelter box justgiving pageYOU can donate as little as £2 on line which would not buy a pint of beer but togeather you could help people who are suffering. Click here to donate. To see more about why we support this charity go to www.shelterbox.org Shelter box news.
If all of Joe's supporters on Facebook donated £2 we could raise £4500.00 which would buy 5 boxes which would house and protect over 50 people for months please goto Joe's shelter box justgiving pageYOU can donate as little as £2 on line which would not buy a pint of beer but togeather you could help people who are suffering. Click here to donate. To see more about why we support this charity go to www.shelterbox.org Shelter box news.
Matt Way (Joe's Dad), Anna Heacock, Julie Richards and Vashti Barnicot all jumped for Joe to raise money for the Precious Lives Appeal in memory of Cornish toddler. The Cornish Parachute club had another 25 jumpers also jumping for Precious Lives over the weekend with conditions varied the team where on their toes to make sure the best was made of every weather window. Team Joe raised an overall amount of over £1500 taking the total over £51,000.00 in just over twelve months since the website started after little Joe Way died. Claire Way said “The journey we have been on since the start of Joe’s website has been amazing and the fundraising has been running at £1000 per week for most of the last twelve months, he has inspired so many new people” Matt Way jumped with tandem instructor Dr Ryan Jackson who also treated Joe during his long stays at The Royal Cornwall Hospital and knows the Way family, they where filmed by Ben Wood as the 10,000 feet jumped took place over the stunning Cornish coast line of Perranporth and St Agnes. Joes banner was worn by Matt however its remand with Ben as he still has some plans for it which will be extreme with a capital E. Matt said "It was the most amazing experience and as Ryan said before we exited the plane “This ones for Joe” I highly recommend it and the team where friendly and completely professional in every aspect of the experience” When Matt was asked if he would do it again he answered “I couldn’t not experience that rush again I will absolutely have to return” If you have a crazy way to get Joe’s web address out there or can take his banner abroad then email info@joeway.co.uk. To see why Cornwall needs a children’s hospice then look on Joe’s website www.joeway.co.uk
The paddle for life started after Lifeguards from Fistral beach held a “Joe Way memorial paddle” to raise money for the Precious Lives Appeal to build a children’s hospice in Cornwall in memory of Newquay toddler Joe Way. The great thing about the Paddle for Life is anyone can set up a paddle
A PAKISTANI boy in excruciating pain is close to having life saving treatment for his rare condition, partly funded by the parents of Newquay miracle boy Joe Way. Four-year-old Ali Ghazi suffers from Steven Johns Syndrome (SJS), a debilitating adverse drug reaction which has attacked Ali's skin and eyes, stopping him holding his head up because of the intense pain from light sensitivity. Joe Way contracted the syndrome which left him life limited and Joe died on May 7th last year and his parents Matt and Claire are now helping in Ali's fight for survival after being contacted by Helen Milne President and Founder Milne Stevens Johnson Syndrome Society in Canada. Helen, whose child has also suffered from SJS was contacted by the parents of four year old Ali Ghazi from Karachi in Pakistan. Ali literally lives in agony every day with severe ocular surface disease as a result of the SJS reaction to medication and Helen contacted Joe's website to ask for UK assistance for Ali.
Joe's Dad was part of a phone in on BBC radio Cornwall about hospital parking
Local ITV news interview with Louise Midgley who did a great story for us
A live interview with five news when Joe was alive - We where sticking up for the hospital as they had a poor rating on the national table
Joe's story is covered on the Wright Stuff by Melinda Messenager
Matt was invited by the Precious Lives appeal and BBC radio Cornwall to speak about Joe's inspirational story at the christmas recording infront over 1000 people.
Listen to the interview actor Ben Richards gave on Pirate FM, where he talks about learning to surf with Ben Skinner, the Joe Way Story and the Paddle for Life site.
Joe is the inspirational little boy who touched people's lives around the country and beyond. His story of hope and fighting against all the odds with a cheeky smile has made what could have been the worse of times the best of times. His story continues to inspire individuals and business to do something positive and to make a difference.