Some athletes stand out not only for what they achieve, but for the heart, determination, and energy they bring to everything they do. Maddi Leblanc is one of those athletes – and an incredible person.
We’re excited to share Maddi’s story. A professional SUP athlete, 3x Canadian Champion, Team Canada competitor, instructor, and recent firefighting school graduate, Maddi brings a deep love for the sport and a clear commitment to continuing to learn, train, and grow. Her path has taken her from a childhood curiosity on the shores of Lake Huron to racing and representing Canada on an international stage.
In this conversation, Maddi shares the experiences and lessons that continue to guide her in SUP. She reflects on training, competition, patience, and the importance of finding joy in the process – no matter where you are in your paddling journey. Let’s dive in.
Introduction
Tell us a little about yourself! Where are you from, and what should readers know about you before we dive into your SUP journey? How did you first get into SUP, and what inspired you to pursue the sport at a higher level?
Hi Alisha! Thank you so much for having me today! I really appreciate the opportunity to share my story! I’m 29 years old, I’m from Welland, Ontario, Canada, and I also recently graduated from firefighting school! I first got into SUP when I saw two men carrying two giant recreational boards on the shores of Lake Huron in Sauble Beach, Ontario. Watching them head out for a paddle fascinated me. I was ten years old at the time and my mom said to me “go ask them what those things are!” I said “no” because I was so shy and my mom then said “if you don’t ask, you’ll regret it”. So I approached them and said “what are those?” and they said “stand up paddle boards – would you like to try?” From then on, I was hooked! I bought my first board after saving up all of my babysitting money when I was 14.
A couple years later, in 2014, I launched a fundraiser called ‘On Board’ that raised funds for brain cancer research with the Canadian Cancer Society in honour of two friends I lost to cancer in 2011. I paddled 10 km down the Welland Canal, a recreational man-made body of water that runs through the centre of my hometown. At that event I had a sponsor that approached me and said “did you know you could race paddle boards?” and I said “No! But tell me more!” In 2016 I tried my first race in Barrie, Ontario, with the Ontario SUP Series and fell in love with the competitive side of the sport. Ever since that first race I did anything and everything I could to get better at racing. In 2018 I was invited to represent Team Canada for the first time at the ISA World Championships in Hainan, China, and I have represented Team Canada almost every year ever since!
How do you know me/Aqueous SUP?
I know you, Alisha, from meeting you at Seychelle x Michael Booth’s training camp in Sarasota, Florida in 2024! The ICF World Championship was being held there that year, and I was working for Seychelle at the time as her social media, marketing, and content creation coordinator. I was there taking photos and videos of all of the participants of the camp, and I couldn’t help but notice your big beautiful smile! You had come from so far to be a part of the camp! I was so stoked to meet you and feel your incredible energy! (Thank you, Maddi! It was so great to meet you too!)
Competition & Growth
What has competing at a higher level taught you about yourself as a paddler and athlete?
Competing at a higher level has taught me that I am capable of doing hard things! Just naturally I always had this desire to get better, faster, and stronger on a paddle board. I have travelled all over the world, completely drained my pockets financially to be able to train in warm climates in my off-season, surf incredible waves, gain new skills, and essentially become the athlete that I am today. My ruthlessness has been a quality / trait I didn’t realize I had until pursuing this athletic career. As an athlete I’ve learned to manage myself as a business, and use my physical skills to pursue a career in firefighting. I don’t think I would have felt confident enough to become a firefighter if I hadn’t pursued paddling at the highest level! Now I get to use my physical skills to save people someday. That’s been a very special thing I’ve learned about myself over the past few years.
What’s been your most memorable race, competition, or paddling experience, and why?
Last year I had the chance to compete in Molokai 2 Oahu as part of a three-man relay team. It truly was a dream come true to participate in that race! I had dreamed about competing in Molokai ever since I discovered what SUP racing was, however I knew I had to work hard to earn a spot to cross the Kaiwi Channel someday. Finally being able to paddle in it last year made me realize I had finally earned it! I cried when I crossed the finish line thinking… here I am, this woman from the land of ice and snow that crossed this big, beautiful, blue, powerful channel! I’ll cherish that moment for the rest of my life.
Training & Insight
How do you approach training, whether for yourself or the paddlers you work with?
I approach my training like work. I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to have been able to put myself in a position to pursue paddling full time while working towards a career in firefighting so I try my best to make the most of it. Each and every single day. I take it seriously, and keep myself fully focused and present when I paddle. My coach, April Zilg, also keeps me on track. She makes sure I’m eating enough, recovering well, and pushing just enough without overdoing it. I’m very lucky to have her on my team!
What’s something you wish more paddlers understood about learning or improving in SUP?
Growth takes TIME, so be patient in the process! I’ve been paddling since 2013, racing since 2016, and I’m still working on improving my technique each and every single session I’m out there. Progress comes from slowing down your stroke, dedication, and consistency. I think sometimes we live in this world where we have things readily available at our fingertips. But when it comes to improving your fitness, technique, or anything related to SUP – it WILL take time! I wish more paddlers understood that patience is a virtue in this sport and it will totally pay off if you give yourself a chance to slow down, focus on your technique, and enjoy the process while doing so.
What’s the best piece of advice you can give to someone preparing for their first big SUP event or race?
Honestly – just make the experience as much fun as possible! I know it can be hard especially when nerves kick in, or you’re just a super competitive person, but to enjoy the event with your full heart and soul, will make the experience so much more memorable. Don’t hold back, give it everything you got! But just make sure you laugh lots, smile along the way, and enjoy who you’re surrounded by! I swear you’ll be hooked for life!
Quick-Fire Questions
Before we close, let’s have a little fun with a few paddle-related favorites.
- Sunrise or sunset paddles: Sunset paddle! Trust me – I love early mornings, but there’s nothing like watching the sun hit the water and the moon rise at the same time! 🙂
- If you could paddle anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?: TAHITI!! That has been my most favourite place EVER to paddle! I’d go back in a heartbeat!
- Favorite piece of SUP gear: LEASH! It saves lives!
- Pre-race hype song: Lose Yourself – Eminem – such a classic ahah!
- Best advice you’ve ever received about SUP: “Have fun, enjoy the process, and follow your heart while you compete in the sport. It won’t steer you wrong.” – Fiona Wylde
- Favorite SUP discipline: Downwinding! I love love love going with the wind and waves!
Final Thoughts
Is there anything you’d like to share with the Aqueous SUP community before we close?
I’m stoked to announce the launch of our documentary called ‘Ocean of Hope’ that highlights my participation in the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis event back in 2024! Our goal is to continue sharing Sebastian’s story – a young Canadian boy suffering from CF – and how taking on enduring feats like the crossing can expose hidden parts of you that you may never have known you had! For more information about the documentary, you can check out the link here. Our first film screening was in Toronto at the Fox Theatre on Saturday, June 27th at 10 am. But we’ll have more film screening dates released soon!
Why We Spotlight Leaders
We’re passionate about community, connection, and continual learning – values that shine through every story we share.
Through our Spotlight Series, we highlight paddlers and professionals who lead with purpose. They bring perseverance, mentorship, and a deep love for the water into the communities around them.
Maddi’s story reminds us that growth begins with curiosity. It is built through commitment, resilience, and the willingness to keep showing up. Her path began with a shy young girl who found the courage to ask about a paddleboard on the shore. It led to representing Team Canada, racing Molokai, and using her platform to inspire others.
Her journey also shows that SUP can shape more than paddling skills. It can build confidence, resilience, and purpose that carries far beyond the racecourse.
A heartfelt thank-you to Maddi for sharing her story – and for continuing to lead with joy, determination, and heart both on and off the water.
To keep up with Maddi’s journey, check out her YouTube channel and follow her on Instagram at @maddi_leblanc.
If Maddi’s journey inspires you, stay connected through our blog or join us on the water. Let’s keep learning, growing, and paddling with purpose.