Blackfish Paddles is proud to welcome 14-year-old Kano Yamanaka to the Blackfish Team, bringing another rising talent from Okinawa into the next generation of SUP racing.

At just 14, Kano Yamanaka is already showing what is possible when determination meets the right opportunity. Based in Okinawa, Japan, and training with OHANA SUP Okinawa, Kano is part of the One Ocean Sports Japan Team and represents a new generation of young SUP talent with big ambitions.

Her journey is particularly striking because the water wasn’t always her natural element. What began with a challenge has developed into a growing passion for racing - and a rapidly expanding list of international results.

In 2026, Kano stepped onto the international stage at the ICF SUP International Junior Cup, taking 2nd place in the U14 Sprint and 3rd in Technical. She followed that performance with another strong showing at the 2026 Asian SUP Championship, racing up in the U18 category and claiming 2nd place in both Sprint and Technical.

Kano is now joining Blackfish Paddles, paddling the new Crozon 460 and 540 as she continues to develop her racing and chase bigger goals.

Peter Allen, General Manager of Blackfish Paddles, endurance paddler and racer, said:  

“Kano represents a new generation of young female athletes coming through SUP. She’s extremely focused, hardworking and determined, with a clear ambition to keep developing and competing at the highest level. We’re really excited to have her as part of the Blackfish team and to support her journey.” 

From initially finding that water wasn’t her element to competing on the international stage, Kano’s progression is a reminder that talent can develop in unexpected places. 

Hi Kano, welcome to the Blackfish Team! How did you get into SUP racing, and what first got you hooked on competing?

When I was 5, I used to go to the beach, just following my mom. Then we joined a SUP Academy where my current coaches were teaching. This was my first time trying SUP.

I hated the water and waves, so I didn't want to do it at first. But as I kept going there, I found out the enjoyment of doing SUP. There were a lot of friends there, and I enjoyed playing with them. This makes me more excited and fun, and makes me want to continue this sport. Also, when I was 9, I had my first competition. I got first place, and that was my first time winning the prize, so I was really happy. From this experience, my confidence and motivation increased, and my goals became higher too.

I started competing in international competitions three years ago, and I have since travelled to Korea, Abu Dhabi, and Romania. Through these experiences, I have been able to see the world through the SUP competitions, and perspective and learn the levels of all around the world. I also wanted to make more friends from different countries, learn more about the world, and experience as many new things as I can.

I am really thankful to my coaches who taught me the excitement of the SUP.

What has your experience been like racing with Blackfish paddles, and what do you particularly like about them?

The first thing I noticed was how incredibly lightweight they are. I think this helps many people especially, kids and women, who have less strength and muscle power. Since switching to a Blackfish paddle, the paddle feels lighter, so I feel less tired. Beyond just being lightweight, the shaft suits me perfectly, which I really like.

What are your plans for the rest of the year, and what are you most looking forward to?

My goal for this year is to get 1st place at Hiroshima International SUP Marathon in November, and finish in the top 3 at the Kerama Blue Cup in December. In the future, of course, I am aiming to become a world champion, but first I want to become a Junior World Champion!

Follow Kano on Instagram 

Sign up for the Blackfish Paddles newsletter to get exclusive updates and insider news