I am Anni Ridsdill Smith from Frangipani SUP in Maldon and I am proud to be a #ThisGirlCan Ambassador in Essex.  I am a British Stand Up Paddle Association (BSUPA) Board Director, a BSUPA Level 2 Instructor (which means that I am qualified to run a professional SUP school and deliver the association’s SUP activities) plus I am a BSUPA Advanced Coach SUP Race.  I am an experienced SUP race athlete and I was selected for Team England in 2022 to SUP sprint at the European Championships. I was in my mid fifties and I competed in the ‘open‘ over 18’s age group.  (The proudest moment of my life, second to marrying my husband of 30 years and giving birth to two boys!)  Paddling for England got me shortlisted for the ‘Active Essex Sports Personality of the Year’ award in 2022, and I was delighted to be highly commended at the brilliant awards ceremony. Paddling for England got me shortlisted for the ‘Active Essex Sports Personality of the Year’ award in 2022, and I was delighted to be highly commended at the brilliant awards ceremony.

Frangipani SUP is an East Anglian SUP Initiative EASI race host, we run SUP race clinics from beginner to advanced and an online network for female SUP athletes called ‘Frangipani SUP Magic’.  I coach other female SUP athletes at all levels, from those beginning on their journey to those preparing for World Championships, working tirelessly to support other women no matter their age, body shape, ambitions or ability.

My favourite activity to get moving: I am truly passionate about helping women to access SUP at all levels but particularly the development of women’s SUP racing.  I am actively involved with GBSUP, a community interest company which organises the national racing series.

Anni’s words: In a nutshell, you CAN do it and I can help you! Just pick up the phone or drop me an email!