The ACA SEIC SUP Committee is excited to announce the winners of the first-ever Paddle with a SUP Pro Video Contest! This contest was designed to spotlight the value of professional stand up paddleboarding (SUP) instruction and the dedicated ACA Instructors and Instructor Trainers who help paddlers gain skills, confidence, and—most importantly—have more fun on the water.
We received five creative, inspiring entries from passionate ACA-certified SUP professionals. After a week of public voting, here are your top three winners:
🥇 1st Place: Dr. Heidi Hartston
🎥 Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1THmnu1GprU
Dr. Hartston’s video captures the energy and joy of professional instruction, highlighting how SUP coaching can help paddlers feel more confident, stay safe, and enjoy every moment on the water.
Prize: An inflatable SIC 12’6 Okeanos Air, generously donated by TAHE and SIC. Thank you to our friends at TAHE/SIC for supporting this campaign!
🥈 2nd Place: Scott Dahlquist
🎥 Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4QrZxNMep8
Scott’s submission focused on making SUP approachable and fun while emphasizing the importance of safety and skill-building.
Prize: A Finesse carbon fiber adjustable paddle, donated by Bishop Boards. Huge thanks to Bishop Boards for their ongoing support of SUP instruction!
🥉 3rd Place: Christina Montiel
🎥 Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVjEy08LEmU
Christina’s video highlights how instruction can build community, connection, and confidence on the water—especially for newer paddlers.
Prize: An adjustable carbon fiber shaft custom wooden paddle, donated by Edgewater Surf. Thank you to Edgewater Surf for your generous prize contribution!
Thank You to All Participants
We’re deeply grateful to every ACA Instructor who submitted a video and to all who voted and shared. This contest showed just how powerful professional instruction can be—helping more people paddle smarter, safer, and with bigger smiles.