We are proud to shine the spotlight this month on Ingrid, a dedicated Coastal Kayaking and Flatwater Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Instructor. With her passion for paddlesports and a deep commitment to teaching, Ingrid has become a cornerstone of her local paddling community, sharing her knowledge and love for the water with students of all ages and abilities.
Ingrid’s love for paddling was sparked during her childhood, which she spent camping and canoeing. As her skills and passion grew, she transitioned to sea kayaking. She later added flatwater SUP to her repertoire, accumulating a robust collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Wanting to be the best paddler she could be, Ingrid pursued formal training to hone her skills. Her dedication to learning naturally led her to the ACA. From there, her teaching journey progressed with the Carolina Kayak Club, where she served as Training Director, helping to expand instructional opportunities for fellow paddlers.
Ingrid spends her summers teaching at Falls Lake Recreation Area, just north of Raleigh, NC, as well as conducting lessons at the Optimist Pool—an ideal setting for practicing rescues. Beyond instruction, she also loves leading paddling trips, including weeklong adventures to the Suwannee River and Everglades in Florida, the Adirondack Paddle Trail in New York, and the Boundary Waters in Minnesota. Closer to home, Ingrid explores the Roanoke River, the NC coast, and many local waterways.
Her favorite moments as an instructor come when her students experience breakthroughs—whether it’s learning to brace against a wave, completing a rescue, or simply gaining confidence in their paddling abilities. “Seeing the sparks when someone gets it is so rewarding,” Ingrid shares. She’s especially moved by the joy and accomplishment she sees in individuals with disabilities when they experience the freedom and connection of being on the water.
Ingrid is also passionate about making paddlesports more inclusive. She’s currently working to improve adaptive facilities at local launch sites and docks, an initiative she admits is challenging but vital. “Getting to the right people who control our lakes and waterways has been difficult,” she notes, “but we will keep trying.”
As an instructor, Ingrid sees a pressing need for foundational paddling education, from basic paddle skills and safety training to trip planning and even loading boats onto cars. Her comprehensive approach ensures her students are not only prepared but also empowered to explore the water safely and confidently.
Through her teaching, trip leadership, and advocacy, Ingrid has enriched the lives of countless paddlers. Her efforts remind us that paddlesports are not just about recreation—they’re about community, connection, and empowerment.
Thank you, Ingrid, for your dedication and for making the paddling world a more welcoming and approachable place!