All VCKC Hosted Events

      Only future VCKC events appear on this page.  To see all events - past & future - view the complete Club Calendar or visit our Program specific calendars.

All Upcoming Events

    • 23 Mar 2024
    • 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

    For more information about Paddle for the Kids visit vckc.ca/PFTK.

    Register here to tell us about yourself, which practice paddles you intend to participate in.


    Start Paddling &
    Fundraising Now!

    • 24 Mar 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Solo

    This course is $35. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    Learn to paddle a canoe by yourself, even in windy and rough conditions. You’ll adapt the paddling stokes learned in the Level 1 Tandem course to solo paddling while sitting in the centre of a canoe. You’ll gain independence as you enhance your understanding of how a canoe responds to each paddle stroke. By completing this course you’ll be able to branch out to the other courses the club offers, such as ocean tripping and the advanced tandem and solo courses.

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Solo paddling positions and trim

        Pivot point

        Extending your strokes for better control

        Solo spins and sideslips

        Self-rescues 

        Effective reverse paddling

        Introduction to environmental ethics

        Access concerns

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Lakewater - Basic Solo in a full-day session normally held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Lakewater Basic Tandem or equivalent.  You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca

    • 24 Mar 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse / Gorge Waterway
    • 4
    Register

    Come learn to Paddle Dragon Boat! 

    Are you looking to join a Dragon boat team but not sure where to start?   

    VCKC DragonFlyers are recruiting and we are hosting a intro/ learn to paddle session on Sunday March 24th. Come learn the basics about dragon boat paddling, racing and technique. This session is geared for beginner paddlers to gain basic skills, with the intent of joining our team this season for twice weekly practices and participating in 3-4 local race events. Come have fun, learn about dragon boating and meet other great locals who are interested in this fun sport!

    Things to know for your session:

    • Dress in comfortable "active wear" clothing, in a couple of layers based on the anticipated weather
    • Bring a water bottle
    • A hat and/or sunglasses are often nice to have, depending on weather
    • There will be some water splashes, you may get a little wet - it's a water sport after all!
    • If you have your own PFD (personal floatation device) or dragon boat paddle, please do bring them with you. Otherwise, we have plenty of club equipment to use. 

    Any questions, please contact Hannah Griffiths at dragonboat@vckc.ca

    • 02 Apr 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse

    Join us tonight to hear Big Canoe Director Joe Boyd talk about all things big canoe!  Paddle for the Kids will be finished for 2024 and Joe will talk about how it went.  If you haven't participated in a big canoe event be sure to come out tonight and hear about the fun you've been missing!

    Ken Gibbard will also be showing some slides from past club trips.

    New members are welcome to come early at 6:30 to have questions about the club answered, and maybe get a tour of the clubhouse and grounds if they would like.

    As always, plan to stay afterwards and socialize!

    • 06 Apr 2024
    • 8:00 AM
    • 07 Apr 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    • Victoria Canoe & Kayak Club, 355 Gorge Rd W, Victoria, BC V9A 1M9
    Register
    Wake Up the Gorge 2024

    Wake Up The Gorge is the VCKC club's annual weekend of racing for OC6 Outrigger canoes and Small Boats. It kicks off the racing season for many of the Victoria and area paddling clubs who use the Gorge Waterway for racing.

    In 2024 WUTG will be held on April 6-7 (OC6 on the 6th and small boats on the 7th).

    Objectives: To unite the Outrigger and Paddling community through Racing, Competition and Friendship.

    Where: At the Victoria Canoe & Kayak Club, 355 Gorge Rd W, Victoria, BC V9A 1M9 (see map). We are located on the beautiful Gorge Waterway.

    When: April 6-7, 2024

    Time: Clubhouse opens 8am, Races start 9am, (ends before 5pm)


    FEES

    OC6
      

    Small Boats (OC1-2, MC1-2, kayak, SUP, surfski)
       

    * registration fee includes a lunch ticket


    Registration

    Online registration for the OC6 (Saturday) race will be closed as of midnight March 20th. Please contact the registrar after that: wutgregistrar@vckc.ca

    Registration for Small Boats remains open until race April 7th.

    OC6 teams should be able to Huli and self rescue. If there is a novice team who has not done a Huli, or participants are not able to re-enter the boat, then the racing organizer and the safety boat must know ahead of time

    CORA OC6 definition of Open “Open” shall be those paddlers who are of any age. (note that this is different for small boat races)

    Waivers:  All team members must sign the VCKC waiver form.  Click here to review and print the required form. Completed waivers can be scanned and emailed to wutgregistrar@vckc.ca or handed to the WUTG registrar at the event. It helps to speed up the registration process if all team members have signed a waiver prior to race day.

    *Notes:

    1.  Our insurance requires that all participants must be CORA members. Membership is available via the CORA website.  An annual membership ($30 for adults and $10 for juniors) is valid for all races in the current year.  You must register with CORA in advance of the race. Please show proof of CORA membership at the onsite registration desk.

    ONE DAY CORA REGISTRATION can be purchased in advance by going to website   CORA - Canadian Outrigger Racing Association - Share our passion for outrigger canoe racing. clicking on the JOIN US TAB  , and then ONE DAY MEMBERSHIP from the dropdown.

    CORA race rules

    2.   Individuals may participate on only one team within a race type (i.e. one senior woman's team, one senior men's team).  Exception:  A paddler is allowed to be on a mixed team and a single-gender team within one race type; separate registrations are needed for this.

    3. For Small Boats races, adult paddlers and crews must now ‘race their age’ and may not race in a younger age division. So Open for Small Boats is not "any age", it's those between 19-39 in the year of the race, and Masters 40 is those between 40 and 49 in the year of the race, etc. Only one competitor is needed for an age category to be awarded a prize.

    4.   Teams must include a qualified steersperson, who has experience with buoy turns, and must attend a WUTG Safety Briefing.

    5.   All team members must have submitted a signed waiver in order to paddle.

    6.   Parking is limited: Please park only in designated areas. Please DO NOT park directly in front or behind the commercial establishments on the NW corner of Gorge and Tillicum.  Parking Map

    7.   Food will be available for all competitors. Additional food will be available by donation: home made chilli, soup, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit, baked goods.

    Saturday APRIL 6 - OC6 Races  

    OC6 races start at 9am.

    Two heats of 1000 meters in two lanes around buoy at 500 Meters (one turn (this is a change!). Each team's time total will result in awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the following categories.

     Juniors - paddlers who are under the age of 18 at the time of WUTG and who will not turn 19 in 2024.

    Categories: Women, Men, Mixed and Junior

    Divisions of:

    Open (any age) 

    Age 40-49

    Age 50+ (Paddlers who are at least 50 years of age in 2024, or who will turn 50 within this calendar year)

    Sunday April 7th - Small Boat Races  

    The Race Director will determine which events to hold based on registrations and interest (minimum of one competitor per category).  Race categories: Junior, Adult Men, Adult Women, Mixed and Open (20-39) plus Senior Women, Senior Men, Senior Mixed - age groupings by decade from 40+ .  Small boats include: (Marathon Canoe (MC1/MC2), Outrigger Canoe (OC 1/OC2), K1, Surfski and Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP).

    Small Boat Races - Morning - race start 9am.

    This race is for OC1, OC2, (all open water small boats). The course is approx. 10km and If the currents allow the race course will start at VCKC out and under Tillicum Bridge to West Bay Marine and returning to VCKC.  Click here for the West Bay Marina Race Map.

    If the currents under Tillicum Bridge makes this impossible, then the race wil take place in the Gorge Waterway and Portage Islet. (two loops of a 5.0 km course) Awards to be presented at the clubhouse after the race.

    Marathon race (MC1) - Race starts after lunch (open to all paddlers who wish to race in protected water).

    Marathon race (MC2) - Race starts after rest period after the singles race.

    The afternoon race course will be approx. 10km in the Gorge Waterway and Portage Inlet, there will be buoy turns. (two loops of a 5.0 km course) Awards will be presented at the clubhouse following the race.

    *there will be a mandatory race briefing for both races 15 minutes prior to racing.

    Afternoon small boat race map

    Click here to view the April 6/7th race schedule (when it's ready.)


    • 11 Apr 2024
    • 14 Apr 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Tandem

    This course is $30. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse followed by a water session on the Gorge Sunday beside the clubhouse  

    Start all your paddling adventures with this introductory course. Whether you are a first-time paddler or with some prior experience, discover the essential skills, manoeuvres and knowledge to safely paddle a tandem (two-person) canoe, either from the bow (front) or stern (back).

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Canoes, paddles, PFDs and other gear

        Paddling positions and boat trim

        Launching and landing

        Forward, stopping and reverse paddling

        Basic turns while paddling forward

        Spins and sideslip manoeuvres

        Storing and waterproofing gear

        Canoeing safety guidelines and equipment

        Handling waves and wind

        Capsizes and rescues

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Basic Tandem course in a full-day session held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE
    You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor before the course.

    The instructors will be Dan Walker dangeo@shaw.ca , 250-858-3315.

    and David Dorosz David.dorosz@shaw.ca , 250-508-2030.


    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca


    • 13 Apr 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Solo

    This course is $40. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    Take your paddling to the next level. You’ll first learn advanced strokes and maneuvers then practice them on a solo circuit on a fixed course. You will be able to demonstrate mastery via precise maneuvering by perfecting stokes on the circuit.

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Advanced stokes - box, pitch, Canadian, …

        Cross bow draws

        Running sideslips

        Weight turns

        Inside & outside circles and figure eights

        Sharp forward & reverse turns

        Bracing strokes

        Canoe history

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Advanced Solo course in a full-day session normally held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE –  Lakewater Advanced Tandem and Lakewater Basic Solo

    Please register online now to secure your spot. You can delay paying until one week before the course date; a payment reminder email will be sent at that time.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca

    • 17 Apr 2024
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Clubhouse Main Floor

    GWI using Clubhouse for their meeting

    • 19 Apr 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 21 Apr 2024
    • 3:00 PM

    Recreation Canoeing Association of British Columbia - Annual Canoe Festival


    It will take place in Camp Kawkawa, Hope, BC. The estimated cost will be $200-260 which includes food, accommodation, and all canoe clinics. Last year accommodation was tenting or 12+ person segregated dormitories.  Registration opens on March 1st, 2024 and there will be an early bird discount until March 20th, 2024.


    Become an RCABC member with a paddler's membership for $15.

     https://bccanoe.com/members/signup.php


    Check their webpage https://bccanoe.com/community/annual-canoe-festival

    or their Facebook page  Canoe Fest and AGMfacebook.com for updated info as it becomes available.


    Ellie James  safety@vckc.ca 


    James McBeath: canoe@vckc.ca 


    • 20 Apr 2024
    • 11:30 AM - 7:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Join us for a day in honour of Norm MacDonnell

    Registration

    5km Race: open to small boats (1-2 paddlers).

    10km Race: open to big boats (3 or more paddlers)

    20km Race: open to small boats (1-2 paddlers)

    Note: Race course may be subject to change at the Race Director’s discretion on race day. A mass start is planned (all race distances running simultaneously) however, this may change depending the number of boats registered by race day.

    Registration is open online and can be done in person the morning of Race Day – April 20, 2024. 

    Dinner is provided for racers who have registered by April 14, 2024.

    Registration desk opens at 11:30am. Race Briefing 12:30pm. Race Start 1pm.

    Questions? For more information:

    Contact Darrelle at dabrmt@hotmail.com

    Information Required with Registration:

    Team name, #of paddlers, boat type, boat description, 5/10/20km, mens* or womens. (*one male paddler or more in a boat = mens team).

    Fees:

    Small boat (solo) $30

    Small boat (tandem) $60

    Big boats $20 x (# of paddlers in boat)

    *Fees include dinner - registration deadline: April 14, 2024 (dinner is not guaranteed after this date).

    Race Rules:

    • 1.     All racers must be CORA members.
    • 2.     CORA race rules apply.
    • 3.    All racers must sign a waiver. Download the waiver here, and hand in the signed waivers on race day - all team members must sign.
    • 4.     All racers (or team captain) must pick up race package and check-in at registration desk between 11:30-12:30pm race day.
    • 5.     Numbers to be worn on bow paddlers chest and stern paddlers back. Solo paddlers wear number on chest and back.
    • 6.     All racers must attend the race briefing at 12:30pm race day.
    • 7.     All racers supply or arrange for their own boat/PFD/paddle

    Awards:

    Prizes for top solo, tandem and big boat: men(s) and women(s).

    To qualify as a women(s) boat, all paddlers must be women. A team qualifies as men(s) when one or more paddler(s) is male.

    Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place (The number of prizes is one less than the number of boats competing in the race. Eg. if there are three boats in the race, 1st & 2nd place prizes will be awarded.)

    Parking:

    Please be aware that parking is limited on site and is not available in the adjacent parking lot (this must remain available for the public using the park). Please plan accordingly to allow time to drop off boat and find parking. Parking is available on some side streets and at Esquimalt Gorge Park. (Please do not park in the Il Greco parking lot).

    Thank-you

    Stormin' Norman Race Map

    Stormin’ Norman Canoe Race Course Descriptions

    5km – race is one loop: from Start Line proceed to marker B for a counter clockwise turn, then proceed to Finish Line.

    10km – race is 2 loops: from Start Line proceed to marker B for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker A for a counter clockwise turn, then to B for a counter clockwise turn, proceed to Finish Line.

    20km – race is 3 loops: from Start Line proceed to marker B for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker A for a counter clockwise turn, then proceed to marker C for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker D, pass with marker on left, then to marker E for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker D, pass with marker on right, then to marker C for a clockwise turn, then to marker F for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker C for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker A for a counter clockwise turn, then to marker B for a counter clockwise turn, then proceed to Finish Line.

    • 21 Apr 2024
    • VCKC / Gorge Waterway

    Proposed Event at this point. 

    More details to be determined closer to event date. 

    • 25 Apr 2024
    • 28 Apr 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Moving Water Basic Tandem

    This course is $120. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse. The water session will be on a river away from the clubhouse.

    Become a river canoeist! Learn about the nature of rivers, how to prepare & manage for the challenges of moving water, and what to do when things don't go as planned.

    Topics include:

        Safety equipment, flotation and outfitting a canoe

        Managing river hazards

        Advanced strokes & braces

        Entering and exiting eddies

        Ferrying to cross the river

        River reading and group travel

        Rescues and swimming in rapids 

        Environmental and access concerns

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Tandem Moving Water course on a local island river over a weekend.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you have it.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit and a helmet, these can be rented in town. Georgia of Coastal Bliss in the Cowichan Valley, 250-715-0034 or coastalbliss@shaw.ca, has been very available to rent equipment early in the morning.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Lakewater Basic Tandem (or proof of equivalent). You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Please register online now to secure your spot. 

    Note that dates may change to ensure safe water levels.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have questions, please feel free to contact the Canoe Program Director.

    Regards,

    Canoe Program Director

    canoe@vckc.ca 

    • 27 Apr 2024
    • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse

    Come join us for the annual Spring Clean-up at the clubhouse.  Tasks include smartening up the outdoor spaces of the clubhouse, deck washing, BBQ cleaning, gutter cleaning, window washing and more. In addition we will be doing a thorough cleaning of the interior including meeting rooms, kitchen and storage areas.

    We will also be making an effort to gather up abandoned member items from around the clubhouse and put them in a central area for reclamation.  Items such as: hats, gloves, shoes, boots or whatever isn't owned by VCKC.  If these items go unclaimed after 30 days we will donate or dispose of them.

    More information to follow about what to bring.  If you have any questions, contact Gord Evans by email to:  clubhouse@vckc.ca

    • 04 May 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 05 May 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    Registration is closed

    VCKC’s ANNUAL RUNNING OF THE COW – May 4 - 5, 2024

    Location: Cowichan River

    Camping: Stoltz Pool Boat Ramp area

    Registration opens  April 1st, 2024.

    The campout is for all club members and guests. The river paddle is open to anyone with Moving Water Basic Tandem certification or equivalent. 

    VCKC will be holding its Annual “Running of the Cow” this year on Saturday May 4th to Sunday May 5th. This is a two-day moving water event where we paddle the Cowichan River, from the Lake all the way down to bridge at Trans Canada Highway – river water levels permitting. This is open to all VCKC members who have completed the Moving Water Basic Tandem course or equivalent. Club members may also join us just for camping, as it's a great place to hike and bike in the area.


    Camping will be available free for members and guests at the Stoltz Pool Boat Ramp at Cowichan River Provincial Park on Friday May 3rd to Sunday morning, May 5th. Additional trailer space is available in the adjacent overflow, or in the campground.


    On Saturday we will start at the weir at Cowichan Lake at about 10AM and paddle to the takeout just above Skutz Falls. There we will enjoy a dinner and a great evening around the campfire. Campers will pack up by 11 AM Sunday morning May 5th and paddlers will complete the paddle.

    Saturday night dinner is open to all VCKC members and guests from other clubs.

    VCKC also invites all moving water paddlers in the area to the Cowichan River that weekend to celebrate the last great weekend of river paddling before the summer low water levels set in (well hopefully there will be a few more).


    If you are interested in attending, contact:

    James McBeath: canoe@vckc.ca or

    Joe Boyd: joeboyd@telus.ca 

    • 23 May 2024
    • 26 May 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Tandem

    This course is $30. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse followed by a water session on the Gorge Sunday beside the clubhouse  

    Start all your paddling adventures with this introductory course. Whether you are a first-time paddler or with some prior experience, discover the essential skills, manoeuvres and knowledge to safely paddle a tandem (two-person) canoe, either from the bow (front) or stern (back).

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Canoes, paddles, PFDs and other gear

        Paddling positions and boat trim

        Launching and landing

        Forward, stopping and reverse paddling

        Basic turns while paddling forward

        Spins and sideslip manoeuvres

        Storing and waterproofing gear

        Canoeing safety guidelines and equipment

        Handling waves and wind

        Capsizes and rescues 

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Basic Tandem course in a full-day session held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE
    You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor before the course.


    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca 


    • 25 May 2024
    • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse and Gorge Waterway

    More details to follow closer to this event date. 

    • 12 Jun 2024
    • 16 Jun 2024
    • 3 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe - Ocean Canoeing

    This course is $120. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    Experience canoeing on the ocean. Learn how to manage typical sea conditions such as currents, tides, and weather on coastal waters. After this course you’ll be able to paddle on your own maritime adventures.  

    This two-part course begins with 6 hours of classroom work spread over 2 evenings that will give you the knowledge to prepare & plan for trips. 

    In the second part of the course, you will be applying your knowledge in a two-day group trip on the ocean. [If you don't want to take part in the overnight trip, the instructor(s) will try to arrange a day trip at a time that suit participants: this will lead to a lower level of certification.

    Topics include:        

         Understanding weather, currents, tides & waves

         Navigation charts, course plotting and compass use

         Loading and trimming a canoe to handle wind and waves

         Safety gear and regulations

         Environmental concerns and Leave No Trace ethics

         Trip planning and leadership 

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Ocean Canoeing course and the Paddle Canada Intermediate Coastal Canoeing course; which involves a capsize and rescue session. 

    This course requires the purchasing of a chart and compass. Purchase the course textbook 'Freedom of the Seas Vol 1.Navigation, Sea State & Weather - A Paddler's Manual' is strongly recommended. Personal camping gear is required for the course trip.

    Some canoeing gear can be provided, however you are strongly encouraged to bring your own canoe & equipment so that you’ll gain first-hand knowledge of how it performs for ocean tripping.

    The ocean trip is usually paddled in tandem canoes. If you need a paddling partner, every effort will be made to find one for you.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Lakewater Basic Solo or equivalent. Paddle Canada Intermediate Lakewater. You need to be a proficient paddler as this course’s focus is on the tripping skills and not basic paddling taught in other courses.       

    Course-specific details and classroom dates will be sent in advance by the instructor Jay Crowley (crowley.jay@gmail.com).                

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact

    Jay Crowley - crowley.jay@gmail.com or

    VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca 

    Canoe Program Director

    canoe@vckc.ca 

    • 25 Jul 2024
    • 27 Jul 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater 1 - Basic Tandem for People who Identify as Women, Non-Binary, or Gender Diverse.

    This course is $30. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse followed by a water session on the Gorge Sunday beside the clubhouse  

    Start all your paddling adventures with this introductory course. Whether you are a first-time paddler or with some prior experience, discover the essential skills, manoeuvres and knowledge to safely paddle a tandem (two-person) canoe, either from the bow (front) or stern (back).

    Topics include:

        Canoes, paddles, PFDs and other gear

        Paddling positions and boat trim

        Launching and landing

        Forward, stopping and reverse paddling

        Basic turns while paddling forward

        Spins and sideslip manoeuvres

        Storing and waterproofing gear

        Canoeing safety guidelines and equipment

        Handling waves and wind

        Capsizes and rescues (Wet/Dry suit recommended)

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Basic Tandem course in a full-day session held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE
    You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor before the course.


    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca


    • 12 Sep 2024
    • 14 Sep 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Tandem

    This course is $30. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse followed by a water session on the Gorge Sunday beside the clubhouse  

    Start all your paddling adventures with this introductory course. Whether you are a first-time paddler or with some prior experience, discover the essential skills, manoeuvres and knowledge to safely paddle a tandem (two-person) canoe, either from the bow (front) or stern (back).

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Canoes, paddles, PFDs and other gear

        Paddling positions and boat trim

        Launching and landing

        Forward, stopping and reverse paddling

        Basic turns while paddling forward

        Spins and sideslip manoeuvres

        Storing and waterproofing gear

        Canoeing safety guidelines and equipment

        Handling waves and wind

        Capsizes and rescues 

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Basic Tandem course in a full-day session held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE
    You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor before the course.


    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca


    • 22 Sep 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Advanced Tandem

    This course is $40. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    If the course is full, add your name to the waitlist. We will add another course when numbers warrant. 

    Refine your skills and teamwork to quickly and efficiently paddle a tandem canoe in any direction. Master linking paddling manoeuvres together smoothly and efficiently to enhance your ability and enjoyment of canoeing. 

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Running and regular sideslips

        Extended straight line paddling

        Sharp forward & reverse turns

        Bracing strokes

        Advanced tandem rescues (Wet/Dry suit recommended)

        Ropes and knots

        Canoe repair

        Handling wind and waves

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Advanced Tandem course in a full-day session normally held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Canoe Lakewater Basic Tandem.   You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Program Director

    Canoe Program Director

    canoe@vckc.ca 


    • 29 Sep 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Solo

    This course is $35. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    Learn to paddle a canoe by yourself, even in windy and rough conditions. You’ll adapt the paddling stokes learned in the Level 1 Tandem course to solo paddling while sitting in the centre of a canoe. You’ll gain independence as you enhance your understanding of how a canoe responds to each paddle stroke. By completing this course you’ll be able to branch out to the other courses the club offers, such as ocean tripping and the advanced tandem and solo courses

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. .

    Topics include:

        Solo paddling positions and trim

        Pivot point

        Extending your strokes for better control

        Solo spins and sideslips

        Self-rescues (Wet/dry suit recommended)

        Effective reverse paddling

        Introduction to environmental ethics

        Access concerns

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Lakewater - Basic Solo in a full-day session normally held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Lakewater Basic Tandem or equivalent.  You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca 

    • 06 Oct 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Lakewater - Basic Solo

    This course is $40. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    Take your paddling to the next level. You’ll first learn advanced strokes and maneuvers then practice them on a solo circuit on a fixed course. You will be able to demonstrate mastery via precise maneuvering by perfecting stokes on the circuit.

    Capsizes and rescues are part of the course.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit, these can be rented in town. Sports Rent Coastal or dive shops have rentals available. 

    Topics include:

        Advanced stokes - box, pitch, Canadian, …

        Cross bow draws

        Running sideslips

        Weight turns

        Inside & outside circles and figure eights

        Sharp forward & reverse turns

        Bracing strokes

        Canoe history

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Advanced Solo course in a full-day session normally held on the Gorge waterway near the VCKC clubhouse.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment if you have it.

    PREREQUISITE –  Lakewater Advanced Tandem and Lakewater Basic Solo

    Please register online now to secure your spot. You can delay paying until one week before the course date; a payment reminder email will be sent at that time.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the VCKC Canoe Director - canoe@vckc.ca 

    • 24 Oct 2024
    • 27 Oct 2024
    • 2 sessions
    • VCKC Clubhouse
    Register

    Canoe Moving Water Basic Tandem

    This course is $120. Please register online now to secure your spot. You will not pay until two weeks before the course date when you receive an email reminder and invoice.

    There will be a theory session on the Thursday night in the clubhouse. The water session will be on a river away from the clubhouse.

    Become a river canoeist! Learn about the nature of rivers, how to prepare & manage for the challenges of moving water, and what to do when things don't go as planned.

    Topics include:

        Safety equipment, flotation and outfitting a canoe

        Managing river hazards

        Advanced strokes & braces

        Entering and exiting eddies

        Ferrying to cross the river

        River reading and group travel

        Rescues and swimming in rapids 

        Environmental and access concerns

    Our certified instructors deliver the Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia’s (RCABC) Tandem Moving Water course on a local island river over a weekend.

    All canoeing gear can be provided, however you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you have it.  All paddlers require a dry- or wet suit and a helmet, these can be rented in town.Georgia of Coastal Bliss in the Cowichan Valley, 250-715-0034 or coastalbliss@shaw.ca, has been very available to rent equipment early in the morning.

    PREREQUISITE – RCABC Lakewater Basic Tandem (or proof of equivalent). You must be a club member to take a course, you will not be able to register until you have logged into the website.

    Please register online now to secure your spot. 

    Note that dates may change to ensure safe water levels.

    Course-specific details will be sent by the instructor one week before the course.

    If you have questions, please feel free to contact the Canoe Program Director.

    Regards,

    Canoe Program Director

    canoe@vckc.ca 

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