Our People
Matt Delany-Owner/Operator
A business graduate of the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, Matt is truly at home in BCs Southwest. He is an experienced hiking, biking and rafting guide with an energetic personality and genuine love for sharing nature and new experiences. His certifications include Advanced Wilderness First Aid and CPR, Commercial River Guide School, Swiftwater Rescue Level III, and Avalanche Operations Level I. With a strong concern for the natural environment, Matt is the Director of Ocean Gybe. A global research and sailing expedition designed to promote ocean conservation and protection. An avid skier, mountain biker, and rock climber, Matt has traveled through South East Asia, the South Pacific, Africa, Patagonia and Europe pursuing his passions.
Ryan Hamm-Trip Leader
Ryan is a consummate guide with his always upbeat and engaging personality. His enthusiasm is contagious and matched only by his qualifications. Awarded the 2007 Guide of the Year award by the top adventure travel companies for his excellence in the Adventure Travel industry. A graduate of the Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership Program (at Medicine Hat College, Alberta) he is also holds certifications in: Whitewater Rafting Guide, Wilderness First Aid and CPR, Swift Water Rescue 1+2, Leave-No-Trace Instructor, and Wilderness Steward Leadership. He has embraced guiding and outdoor instruction as his chosen career and performs his job with passion.
 Stephan Guenette-Trip Leader
Prior to joining the AOA team in 2007, Stephan spent the majority of his time living near the Canadian Rockies, where he graduated with honors from the four year Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership program at Mount Royal College in Calgary AB. His endless sense of adventure has taken him on a 10 day expedition beyond the Arctic Circle in Baffin Island, on a 28 day paddling expedition in remote northern Canada, and on a three week, self-supported trip into southern Costa Rica. He is a proficient mountain biker, rock climber, paddler, swimmer, backcountry skier and ice climber. Stephan has a great passion for being in the outdoors and especially for helping individuals live out new experiences, and then watching them grow. Stephan's time spent as a swimming, skiing, rollerblading, and rock climbing instructor has provided him with the ability to effectively develop and motivate others. Through his many experiences, Stephan has created proficiencies at managing and speaking to large groups of individuals of all ages, and in French and English. Stephan is certified in swift water rescue levels 1 & 2, CPR, wilderness first aid, and is a certified lifeguard.
 Tara Geach-Operations Manager
Two words that best describe Tara are fun and friendly. A Vancouver Island girl and University of Victoria business graduate, Taras interests lie in the outdoors and traveling. A former varsity athlete Tara now tries to ski, bike, snowboard, wakeboard, climb, and surf as much as she can. Inspired by new quests Tara joined our team to help create amazing adventures. Her personal pursuits and hospitality background enable her to ensure your WOA experience is outstanding.
 Katie Giddings -Trip Leader
Katie’s love of the outdoors began while taking canoe trips in her native Ontario region. She pursued an education in Leisure and Recreation at the University of Ottawa, then seeking more experience and exposure to tourism, she decided to continue in a post graduate program in Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism Management. With her Wilderness First Responder, and an interest to learn more, she completed her Emergency Medical Technician Training. Through her desire to be in the outdoors and work with people, she taught outdoor education for a few years, then wanted to expand her experience with some multi day excursions and started guiding extended trips in NM, AZ, Ontario, and all over British Columbia.. Thanks to many years in the restaurant industry, Katie’s well developed expertise and passion for food will keep her guests happy and well fed!
 Brian Shaw - Head Bike Mechanic
Before moving to BC, Brian attended Georgian college in Barrie Ontario where he earned his diploma in business and resort operations. Now a 5 year local in Whistler, Brian spends his summers riding the Whistler bike park and working as the lead bike mechanic at WOA. Winters are spent working in the snowboard industry and enjoying the surrounding mountains. With no off-season Brian is living the dream all year round.
 Brendon James -Assistant Bike Mechanic and Sales
Before moving to BC, Brian attended Georgian college in Barrie Ontario where he earned his diploma in business and resort operations. Enthusiastic, cheerful and always keen to help, Brendon is a jack of
all trades. He has been involved with sales, tours, bike maintenance
and general back up.Originally from South Africa, he graduated with a Diploma in Hospitality, specializing in Food and Beverage management. His travels have taken him through Southern Africa, Europe and Canada. He enjoys Cross Country Mountain biking, kayaking and hiking, whilst he gains valuable experience conquering the Coastal Mountain Terrain. His sense of humour and style is sure to make your trip to Whistler filled with memories of adventure!
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