Friday, July 1, 2011 - Blog on a Log

Six Ways to Celebrate Canoeing

Last month brought us National Canoe Day - a far too seldom celebrated holiday, and one we feel deserves more attention than it gets. If you missed this year's NCD, or are just looking for a chance to show your paddle pride at any time of the year, we've brainstormed some ways you can tell the world about your favourite hobby - sometimes without saying a word.

• Canoe Clothing
  Just because you're not near the water, doesn't mean you can't look fit to paddle. Wear your roll-up, quick-dry pants with pride. Don a Tilley hat and a PFD; everyone knows that foam-lined vests are the new black. Feeling really dapper? The red striped sash need not be saved just for Festival du Voyageur anymore!
• Carry a Canoe
  Practice your portage skills and show your pride all in one go! Carrying a canoe around all day says a lot of things - "I love to paddle" "I am very strong" "I have probably broken something in the near vicinity." It's an intriguing individual that can navigate the labyrinth of daily life with a 3-meter monkey on their back.
• Canoe Cake
  Have your pride, and eat it too. You won't be the first to make a paddling-themed bakery treat, but that's no reason to give it a miss. There's always something to be said for celebrating with egg, flour, and too much sugar.
• Canoeing Companion
  Unlike kayaking, canoeing's not usually an individual sport, and the sense of boat camaraderie is a huge draw of the sport. For that sense of teamwork off the water, find a ‘paddle' partner for the day - tandem walking might not have quite the same feel, but you'll get a kick out of deciding who gets to ‘steer'.
• Canoe Cinema
  If your actual paddling options are unfortunately limited, you could always kick back and watch someone else have the fun. There are lots of movies out there to choose from-just don't watch Deliverance if you intend to backwoods paddle again. Ever.
• Clearly Canoeing
  Without a doubt, the best way to celebrate canoeing is to get out and do some! Feel your paddle slice the water, listen to the sound of the water slapping your boat, and remember why we love this sport enough to celebrate it. If you're lacking in gear, paddle buddies, or a route, or anything you need to get out on the water, feel free to stop by - we'd be more than happy to get you set for your next paddling adventure!

Photo: m.prinke on Flikr