Anne Sontheimer

Paddling School Head Instructor
NOC Leadership Institute Director

Age: 36
Height/Weight: 5' 9" / 155 lbs
First Year Paddling: 1991
First Year at NOC: 1994
Favorite Boats: Dagger Nomad
Favorite Rivers: Chattooga

Fun Facts: Anne began working for NOC in 1991 at Slow Joe's Cafe, where she rode her bike to work every morning and occasionally guided a raft on the Nantahala River . In 1994, she moved to the Chattooga River to guide on Section IV for many seasons, eventually becomming a Head Guide. Anne developed her kayak skills on the Chattooga where her natural athleticism and tenacity allowed her to take her kayaking to new levels. When she moved to the main NOC campus in 2000, she was thrilled to be a full-time component of an exceptional Paddling School team. Her technical skills and winning personality have made her one of NOC's most respected and requested instructors.

Serving as head instructor, equipment manager and adventure travel leader, Anne is a keystone of our Paddling School success. She will always greet you with a smile and admits that any day spent in a kayak and sharing her passion with others is a great day for her. When she is not in her boat, Anne can be found riding her mountain bike or out running with her dogs, Raine and Rowan. In the fall, Anne leads our Costa Rica Adventure Travel trips with her husband, Chris Port.

Certifications

• American Canoe Association Instructor Trainer
  

Video/DVD

• The Kayakers Tool Box award winning instructional video

Other Certifications and Information

• EMT-Intermediate
• Counselor for adjudicated youth, Aspen Youth Alternatives, Utah desert
• Built a timber frame home
• Super Power: Honesty and openness