These two-week ‘Camps’ offer an introduction to the sport of Sprint Canoe-Kayak for children ages 11-14 and provide all the basics needed to continue into the full summer competitive program.  Over two weeks the paddlers will be progressed though all the basics skills required to take part in a fun local regatta.  Paddlers will learn water safety rules for sprint boats and participate in practice sessions.  They will learn about the boats, paddles, basic stroke technique and simple competition skills.  At the end of the two-week camp paddlers will attend a fun local racing event to test out their new abilities.  Regatta Ready participants will receive their very own Rideau Canoe Club Racing Jersey for the event. 

** All Regatta Ready participants must wear life jackets or PFDs any time they are on the water**

Pre-requisites: NEW THIS YEAR!

Although no paddling experience is required, Regatta Ready Camps participants must demonstrate minimum swim ability. 

Prior to getting in boats participants must show they have the ability to swim 50 metres (any stroke), stay afloat in water for 5 minutes. Instructors will assess swimming ability on the 1st day of the program so please come ready to get in the water.  Swim ability is accessed without a lifejacket or other flotation device.  If your child is nervous about this process we welcome you to swim along with your child to ease the nerves.

For more information on a specific Regatta Ready Camp please select the session you are interested in.  

Regatta Ready (RR1), Regatta Ready (RR2), Regatta Ready (RR3), Regatta Ready (RR4), Regatta Ready (RR5)

Equipment:

The canoe club will provide all paddling equipment.  Although Rideau has PFD’s for paddlers use, participants are welcome to bring their own.  PFD’s must fit ‘properly’ to be acceptable.  Two changes of clothing will be required; clothing should be comfortable, loose fitting and preferably made of quick drying fabric (they do get wet!).  Running shoes are required for dry-land practice activities.  Sun screen, water bottle and snacks are needed for each training session.

Regatta Ready sessions are the primary entry point into the full sprint canoe-kayak program at Rideau. Presented below is a flow diagram showing Regatta Ready (RR) sessions placed in relation to the full season.

NOTE: If a paddler registered in the Regatta Ready Camp chooses to continue on in the full competitive summer program a credit will be awarded.