Chan Jones

Paddling Instructor

Age: 19
Height/Weight: 5' 9'' / 165lbs
First Year Paddling: 2002
First Year at NOC: 2007
Favorite Boats: Pyranha Burn and Everest, Prijon Tornado
Favorite Rivers: Raven Fork, Green Narrows, Road Prong, Overflow, Cullasaja, and Chattooga

Fun Facts: As a lifelong resident of Western North Carolina, Chan grew up in nearby Franklin. However, he did not start paddling until the summer of 2002, when he participated in a week-long summer kayak camp in Bryson City. Immediately hooked on boating, Chan bought his first boat from NOC the week he got home from camp, and started boating with his family every chance he got. He hasn't stopped boating since.

Chan has competed in the occasional freestyle competition and many regional, national, and international races, but his passion is for creek boating where he enjoys falling off the steepest, most remote creeks he can find. Among his competitive accomplishments are: Three-time USA Canoe/Kayak Team member, 2006 National Wildwater Champion (Jr. Division), 2007 Green Race: 6th place, short boat class. Off the water, Chan can be found mountain biking, climbing, and working toward completing his education as a Registered Nurse.

Certifications:

• National ACA Whitewater Kayak Instructor
• Wilderness First Responder