From Water to Fairways: A Lifelong Passion for Sport at FC Watersports, SUP Inflatables & the Journey to FCUP Sports
Sport has never just been a hobby for us—it’s been a way of life.
At the heart of FC Watersports, SUP Inflatables, and the evolution into FCUP Sports is a deep-rooted passion that stretches back decades. For founder Gary Willingham, that journey began at just eight years old—and it hasn’t slowed down since.
A Childhood Built on Movement
From an early age, sport wasn’t something scheduled—it was something lived.
Windsurfing and skiing were the starting points, opening the door to a lifetime of adventure. Those early years quickly expanded into a wide range of disciplines:
- Skateboarding through teenage streets
- Snowboarding down mountain slopes
- Kitesurfing and wakeboarding on open water
- Mountain biking across rugged terrain
Each sport brought its own challenge, its own community, and its own sense of freedom. That diversity of experience still shapes everything we do today—because we understand sport from the inside out.
From Passion to Purpose: The Birth of FCUP Sports
What started on the water with FC Watersports and evolved through SUP Inflatables naturally led to something bigger.
FCUP Sports was born from that journey—a brand built not around a single sport, but around a lifestyle. A place where everything we’ve learned across decades of experience could come together.
- A love for multiple sports
- A commitment to quality gear
- A focus on real-world use, not just trends
It’s not about sticking to one lane—it’s about embracing the full spectrum of sport and the people who live it.
Family, Fairways, and a Return to Golf
In the late teenage years, another sport entered the mix: golf.
It started simply—time spent on the course with Gary’s dad. Like many things in life, golf took a back seat for a while as other sports and business ventures grew. But as time moves on, some things call you back.
Now, golf has returned—not just as a sport, but as a way to connect, unwind, and build relationships.
That’s why we’re proud to be associated with Ferndown Forest Golf Club, where we hold a corporate membership.
Visit Ferndown Forest Golf Club
An Open Invitation
- 4-ball booking available every day, 7 days a week
If you’re a customer, supplier, or partner and you’re ever in the area, the invitation is there. Come and join us for a round. It’s a great way to talk business, share ideas, or simply enjoy the game.
From Watersports to Golf: The Same Ethos Applies
- Quality matters
- Performance matters
- Enjoyment matters most
We’re constantly on the lookout for products that align with this ethos—not just in watersports, but increasingly in golf and other lifestyle categories.
Expanding Into Golf: Products We Believe In
Performance Eyewear
For those long days on the course, having the right eyewear makes all the difference. Our range of golf-ready sunglasses combines clarity, comfort, and durability.
Comfort Meets Personality
Golf doesn’t have to be traditional from head to toe. The Funky Glow Socks from Stinky Socks bring comfort and character to your game—because why not enjoy every detail?
Always Looking Forward
At FCUP Sports, we’re not standing still.
We’re actively seeking new products, partnerships, and ideas that fit our DNA—whether that’s in golf, watersports, or beyond. If it enhances performance, adds enjoyment, and reflects a genuine love of sport, we’re interested.
More Than Business—It’s a Lifestyle
This journey—from windsurfing at eight years old to building multiple sports brands and evolving into FCUP Sports—isn’t just a story. It’s the foundation of everything we do.
Sport connects people. It creates memories. It builds relationships.
And sometimes, it even leads to a round of golf in Dorset.
Join Us
If you’re visiting, collaborating, or simply curious—reach out.
The water’s always there.
The fairways are waiting.
And there’s always a spot in the 4-ball.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FCUP Sports?
FCUP Sports is a UK-based sports brand built from decades of experience in watersports, now expanding into golf and lifestyle products.
What products does FCUP Sports offer?
We offer a growing range including paddleboards, watersports gear, golf sunglasses, and golf accessories.
Can I play golf at Ferndown Forest with FCUP Sports?
Yes, customers and partners are welcome to join us using our corporate membership—just get in touch to arrange a round.
