Phil Smith

Growing up in Colorado, as the youngest of 8 kids (7 boys 1 girl) I have gotten to experience outdoor life with my family in so many incredible ways. Everything from camping to mountain biking to fly fishing to river rafting to 4wheel rock crawling. I have been an avid skier since I was 10 but if push came to shove, I would give it up to be on a paddle board year-round at any time. 

I got hooked on stand-up paddle boarding with my wife nearly 10 years ago and even when I am on the water I can’t wait until the next time I can be on the water.

There is a serenity on the water that is hard to replicate elsewhere, combine that with the exercise, sun, ability to explore and great people and I am all in. I have been on all forms of water; rivers, oceans, lakes, baby pools and tried (and bought) a wide variety of boards and have to say I love a killer river float with friends the most. 

Luckily and thankfully, I have an incredible job as head of marketing for a national non-profit (There With Care). I get to bring community and care to families with children facing a medical crisis. I plan to build an outdoor element to all aspects of this incredible nonprofit and fortunately have the flexibility to spend time doing what I love outside.

Unfortunately, I ruptured my Achilles 7 months ago and could not paddle board. That said I was driven to get back on a board and did so within 5 months of my injury. This sport has helped me regain balance and strength and I am so thankful to be able to be at it again.