Lettmann welcomes Sophie Gilfillan to the team
« We are proud to welcome Sophie to the team. »
Lettmann just welcomed Sophie Gilfillan to their team! With a deep passion for whitewater and undeniable paddle fire, Sophie Gilfillan brings exceptional energy and talent to the river. As a highly gifted young paddler, Lettmann says they are excited to support her on her kayaking journey.
Sophie was recently named U21 Female Paddler of the Year at the 2025 Kayak Session Paddler Awards. This honor highlights her passion, skill, and rapid progression in the sport.
Sophie grew up in Ottawa, Ontario, eventually along the banks of the Ottawa River. Before kayaking became her main focus, she was involved in numerous sports, including hockey, competitive ski racing, running, and triathlons. Everything changed when she discovered kayaking at age 12 through an Introduction to Whitewater kids’ camp on Ottawa’s artificial slalom course.
This first experience led her into slalom training and later to freestyle kayaking after a summer camp on the Ottawa River. Following COVID, Sophie stepped away from ski racing and committed to year-round kayaking with World Class Kayak Academy, where she discovered creek boating for the first time and instantly fell in love.
After balancing slalom, freestyle, and creek boating for some time, Sophie realized that freestyle and especially creek boating brought her the most joy. A summer of creek boating in Western Canada further confirmed this direction, and while she still enjoys all disciplines, creek boating is where her passion currently burns brightest.
« We are thrilled to support Sophie as she continues to push her limits and make her mark in the kayaking world. »
A key influence in Sophie’s development has been Kalob Grady, who mentored her from a young age and guided her toward World Class Kayak Academy. Sophie credits him with shaping both her paddling and personal growth.
Lettmann would also like to thank Allen Yip of Yip Yak Paddle Sports, who repeatedly brought Sophie and her outstanding talent to their attention and played an important role in making this partnership possible.
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