Monday, August 4th, 2008...6:22 pm
Kids, Kayaks and a few thoughts.
We are now midway through the 2008 Youth Challenge Kayak Program.
The kids who come out are an interesting mix of young people from the area and all have unique characters that, when given the opportunity make a interesting and beneficial add-on to the success of the group.
We have seen confidence grow and attitudes improve. I have even received a declaration to quit smoking (that one makes me really proud) 
The language improves during the summer (at least during our program) and the effort they put into the sport goes up to.
The changes are often subtle off and on the water: Individuals watching others struggle then swim are suddenly part of a group looking out for each other. When one swims others are close to help.
Passing little tricks on to help their friends with a roll or with a stroke and the one I really enjoy, is when one of them helps another who is less confident get in or out of the water.
Now we have their attention and we will be adding a bit more to the experience.
It is not possible to highlight enough the importance of safety in Kayaking. That means good communications, river reading, self rescue and the proper use of throw bags.
Diet and off water physical conditioning (reinforcing exercise and stretching) is also going to be looked at closely in the coming weeks.
Todays kids think that power drinks and protein bars will help them to be athletes. We do not believe this and will be showing the alternatives.
Needless to say this is all leading up to out trips to Valleyfield Quebec where they can apply all their skills on whitewater.
When the program is complete each participant will receive a year membership with CReW and hopefully we will work to maintain their interest through the winter and into the following year.
This week they will all receive program hoodies during their lessons and the Youth Center will have a copy of Billy’s new book to add to the library there.
I am very proud to be a part of the Youth Challenge Program and have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Pleas allow me to pass on the thanks to all the people and orgs that help me make it so:
Billy and Carly Harris for their efforts on and off the water. Great people and great friends.
Jackson Kayaks, H2O paddles, Level 6 and The Ottawa Paddle Shack, who have been with us since the beginning and ensure that the kids are outfitted with the best gear available.
Mountain Equipment Coop, The Ontario Ministry Of Health Children In Action Fund, Pat St-Pierre Auto-Pro and The Cornwall Youth Center for the generous grants and donations that allow us to cover the cost of a season on and off the water.
This year we were also joined by Immersion Research and Shred Ready. Great gear that cover and protect the kids.
The youth center for welcoming us into their world and allowing us to teach and play with the young people in the area.
Cheryl MacGregor (assistant instructor, general helpful person), Aime-Jean Lavigne (Instructor and Friend), Sylvie Lebel (my lovely wife, best friend and instructor), Zachary and Emily Zwanenburg (yup mine too!), and the volunteers at the youth center who give their time to help us ensure that the kids have a season to remember.
If I have missed a few people and I am sooo sorry but be sure that in the hearts and mids of the kids that you have influenced this summer you will not be forgotten.
Another month coming and soo many more new experiences to enjoy!
See you on the river soon,
Robert Zwanenburg
Keep watching our club picture section for pics and videos of the season:
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