Gareth Mahood

Gareth runs the Ulster Canoe Club with enthusiasm and passion, looking after everyone on and off the water and catering to the needs of individuals. He is committed to ensuring the club is diverse, inclusive and welcoming to all. Gareth also volunteers with a number of youth groups getting young people involved in Paddlesport who would otherwise not have the opportunity, and runs a legacy project backed by The Duke of Edinburgh Awards which supports young people through Canoe Leadership Awards.

In addition to being an active volunteer coach and leader he organises the annual Ulster Canoe Festival. Gareth has supported CANI for many years on our Board and Committees and last year was the NI Member on the British Canoeing Board.

In recognition of his contribution to both canoeing and the community Gareth was the recipient of the 2023 BBC Sports Personality Unsung Hero Award for NI and was shortlisted for the SportNI Coach of the Year Award.