Tony Palmer

Tony Palmer is an Instructor in the Department of Health and Physical Education at Mount Royal University (MRU), where he has taught canoeing and kayaking courses since 1999. He holds a part-time faculty position alongside his roles as a paddlesports instructor trainer, store owner, and columnist for KANAWA Magazine.

Education:

• Bachelor of Commerce (B.Comm.), McMaster University

Research and Community Interests: Tony is a nationally recognized expert in paddle sports safety, having contributed to Canadian standard programs for Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP), whitewater kayaking, and sea kayaking. He has led community projects such as the Calgary Weir Improvement Project (Harvie Passage), the Lower Kananaskis River User Association, and SUP Calgary. His work emphasizes safe recreational paddling practices and program development.

Awards:

• "Honour M" award from McMaster University (for outstanding leadership and contribution)

Additional Roles: Tony balances teaching with instructing at various levels, including certifying canoe instructors in Alberta and SUP instructors nationwide. He also serves in leadership roles for paddling organizations, including President, Treasurer, and Safety Director for Paddle Alberta, and Vice-President and Program Development Chair for Paddle Canada.

Labs/Teams: He co-initiated key community initiatives like the Harvie Passage project and SUP Calgary, focusing on river safety and paddling accessibility.