Hillary Neal

Hillary Neal found her love of water at a very young age in the Great Lakes, which propelled her into white water communities from Ontario to B.C. This is where she developed her superior skills of canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting and now stand up paddle boarding. She now enjoys SUP treks with her friends, family and little son.

This super talented coach and mentor is a remarkable ambassador for the sport of SUP. Her students say that Hillary is an excellent communicator and a fun energetic coach. She ensures that each participant enjoys a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Safety is always first with Hillary. She is a Paddle Canada Certified SUP Instructor , Swift White Water Rescue Technician, and trained in Emergency and Standard First Aid/ CPR.

You can find Hillary in the Kawarthas at #HillarySUP conducting fun classes for all abilities ranging in age from 5 to 95 at various beachfronts, from resorts to private cottages, or touring the Kawartha Lakes with clients on day trips and great weekend packages. Hillary is stoked to continue her SUP journey as an ambassador for Blu Wave.

Grace Stolarz

I would consider myself an avid yogi, paddler and lover of life. I am the owner of SUP Yoga Halifax and have been teaching standup paddleboarding and yoga in Halifax for the past 4 years. I am an advanced SUP instructor with Paddle Canada and have also completed my level 1 WPA (World Paddle Association) certification along with a 30 hr SUP yoga instructor training. I have sat on the board of directors as director of SUP for Canoe Kayak NS. My biggest passion and drive is all about bringing this amazing sport to my community in a safe, accessible, fun way.

Where do you currently live?

Halifax, Nova Scotia

What was your first SUP experience?

My first SUP experience was in Australia when I was exploring the East Coast. It was an instant love and I have been doing it ever since.

What do you like to do most on a SUP?

Yoga for sure! I also love exploring new places and cruising around.

Where is your favourite spot to paddle?

My favourite spot would have to be Head of St. Margaret’s Bay. It’s where I teach, where I grew up and there is so much to see on the water.

What do you like to do when not paddling?

When I’m not paddling I love to be outside trying new things and seeing new places. Traveling, food and yoga are also big passions.

Favourite Bluwave Board?

currently the woody - it’s great for yoga and cruising around.

Favourite moment on SUP?

My favourite moment on my board has to be every time I am teaching and the class is in savasana. Being outside, on the water, sharing my passion with others. I get to take it all in; it really doesn’t get any better.

Lucas Walters

My involvement with the sport has consisted of a few races and a lot of time on multi-day self supported trips. Most evenings during the summer I spend exploring our local lakes and rivers. Living so far north I am able to spend lots of time on the water in peak season when the sun does not set until late evening. Being remote has its advantages, being able to paddle and view the northern lights is pretty rad. I really enjoy the SUP community and the different types of people the sport draws to it. Last year I placed third in a race in Yellowknife NWT it was my first time racing. I really enjoyed the challenge of racing. What I enjoy the most is being far out into the backcountry with only my board, some gear and some awesome people to share the experience with!

Where do you currently live?

Meadow Lake Saskatchewan

What was your first SUP experience?

Spent the day on a rental board on Waskeisu Lake in Price Albert National Park.

What do you like to do most on a SUP?

I love spending day in the backcountry of National parks on multi day SUP camping trips.

Where is your favourite spot to paddle?

South Saskatchewan river

What do you like to do when not paddling?

I enjoy heading to the mountains and chasing fresh powder days on my skis. Or overnight bike packing trips.

Favourite Bluwave Board?

The Catalina 14.0 EXP

Favourite moment on SUP?

paddling into Saskatoon after a three day 140km self support SUP expedition to raise awareness for mental health. Surrounded by a group of amazing paddlers!