About Robin
My Mom and Dad grew up in Philippines, with traditional connections and practices sa kanilang lupa at tubig - “to their land and waters”.
Like many immigrant stories, they settled in Canada for a “better life”. Together, my pamilya navigated, explored, grew, fished, and gave respect to Turtle Island.
Their story matters because I’m the continuation of my Ancestors.
My home was never far taga lawa - “from the lake”.
Over time, kind people taught me about the waves, and showed me community.
I learned, explored, made mistakes, learned more, and feel my soul beam whenever I’m in the water.
I want my students to take what I can show them, and make it theirs. I want people to understand, respect, and feel the healing power of being in the water so they too may share special moments with family and friends safely, and with so much joy.
Credentials
Paddle Canada Certified Advanced SUP Instructor
Founder and Community Leader at Lake Surfistas
International Surf Association (ISA) Level 1 Surf Judge
Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid & CPR
Paddle Canada SUP River Skills 1
World Paddle Association certified SUP instructor
Inaugural Lake Huron Fresh Water Classic Surf Contest - Women’s Champion (2013)
The Gales of November Lake Erie Surf Contest - 2nd Place Women’s Division (2013)
The Gales of November Lake Erie Surf Contest - 1st Place SUP (2018)
Bachelor of Arts - Geography - York U
4 Season SUP and surf
Surfing since 2001
Great Lakes surfing since 2005
Leading Forecasting workshops since 2014
SUPing since 2009
SUP instruction since 2011
9 years retail sales experience in SUP and surf hard goods and equipment sales at Surf Ontario
Recently in the Media
Cold Water Communities. A Short film by TWP Foundation
This short film highlights those who brave the cold and recreate in this beautiful body of water all year round.
PBS Great Lakes Now
Segment aired on PBS on Lake Surfistas and Robin Pacquing
Swim Drink Fish
Breaking Water with Robin Pacquing
PBS Great Lakes Now
Surfing the Great Lakes. ‘What? People do that here?’
The Globe and Mail
Winter Surfing in the frigid waters of Canada’s lakes and oceans
Patagonia
A New Surf Culture by Stephanie Vermillion
North of Long Tail
A documentary photo series celebrating Lake Erie by Colin Boyd Shafer commissioned by Evironmental Defence.
PermaStoked The Podcast with Derik Hyatt
Robin Pacquing - The Real Lake Surfista
Breakfast Television
LIVE on CityTV - Aired on International Women’s Day, March 8 2021