Nikki Gregg
| Hometown: Oahu, Hawaii |
When/why you started SUP? I started stand up paddling over 2.5 years ago. One of my first experiences with stand up paddling was the seven mile Maliko downwinder run on the north shore of Maui during a rather large Hawaiian swell. It was very challenging and I was hooked instantly. After stand up paddling for a few months my clients would ask me what I was doing for exercise because I looked much more in shape than ever. I said 'It's SUP!! You have to try it! It will change your life!" Soon after I started to develop my SUP Fitness Boot Camps that involve doing workouts out in the ocean and on the SUP Boards. My clients loved it and I couldn't believe I was getting paid to stand up paddle, which had turned into my favorite pastime. River SUP is something quite unique (especially for a girl), perhaps you can elaborate on what it is like. I love all areas of stand up paddling, but nothing gets my heart pumping or challenges me more than running whitewater. It's the ultimate adrenaline rush because the river is very powerful and always keeps me on my toes. Once you enter a rapid it's total commitment and focus, never to be underestimated. I have a background of whitewater raft guiding and kayaking so I already had the passion for running rivers long before SUP. Why Starboard? Starboard has the widest range of boards and technology that I have seen. There is a board for every discipline of SUP that I like to do including fitness, surfing, whitewater, racing, downwinders. Starboard is not afraid to try new designs and technology and they are pushing the limits of SUP all over the globe. I am proud to be part of and have support from the Starboard family! What is your thoughts/visions about the future Future of SUP I am proud to be a part of the tremendous growth of the sport of stand up paddling. The sport is still developing and progressing at a rapid pace. The fact that there are so many different aspects of the sport that can be done in so many places and taken to any level of difficulty is very appealing. Also, the fact that virtually anyone can do it will also continue to grow the sport. From cruising to fishing and even running waterfalls, there is really no limit to where the sport is headed! |
