SurfSUP Adventure’s founder and lead guide, Ian Smith, was recently awarded the title of “Master Trainer” by the Professional Standup Paddle Association (PSUPA). With this designation, Ian became one of only four Master Trainers worldwide. He teaches instructor certifications in the disciplines of Flat Water and Whitewater SUP / River Surfing. Here’s an excerpt from the PSUPA press release:
Ian teaches a river surfing course for a group of First Waves students. Photo: Renee Rosensteel
Ian Smith is a standup paddleboard athlete, guide, and instructor from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 2011, Ian founded SurfSUP Adventures, a full-service paddleboarding outfitter and guiding service based in Pittsburgh. SurfSUP Adventures was the first whitewater paddleboarding outfitter in the Eastern United States. While the company’s origins are in whitewater and river surfing, SurfSUP is best known for its fusion of eco tours and SUP lessons at destinations including Moraine State Park and Allegheny Islands State Park. Furthermore, Ian utilizes his decade of experience with SurfSUP to provide professional instructor training through the PSUPA. He provides certifications in the disciplines of flat-water and river SUP.
Ian leads a fall foliage eco tour and SUP lesson. Photo: Jared Wickerham
Ian is also the founder of First Waves, an award-winning organization that uses standup paddling and the art of filmmaking as a catalyst to inspire conservation and mentorship for at-risk youth. Since its inception in 2014, the organization has introduced hundreds of youth to river surfing and SUP. The program also empowers them to embrace watershed conservation projects such as tree plantings, river cleanups, and stream samplings. Lastly, through their exposure to filmmaking instruction, the youth participants learn to create their own films and digital media that inspires others and supports them with vital skills for continued education and careers.
In addition to teaching, Ian is a team athlete and SUP racer for Werner Paddles and NRS. He made his name alongside Rob Mazzetti as they pioneered descents on the venerated whitewater runs throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Maryland. These runs were often steep and technical including; the Top Yough, Upper Yough, Savage River, Paint Creek, Rock Run, and many others.
Ian also found success in whitewater SUP races including wins at the New River Gorge Whitewater race in 2014 and 2019. Depending on the season, Ian will be most likely found guiding eco tours, surfing on the Great Lakes, or making descents of Slippery Rock Creek, his favorite local run.
Ian threading a line on the Nolichucky River. Photo: Deb Stipa
You can watch for upcoming trainings led by Ian HERE!
Ian shows proper paddling technique for a forward stroke. Photo: Teri Getsay