The Bluewater Education Foundation proudly hosted its first-ever Rankin River Canoe Rally on Saturday, May 23rd, bringing together paddlers, nature enthusiasts, volunteers, and community supporters for a fun-filled day on the water.
Mike Schwindt, Development Manager of the Bluewater Education Foundation was the brains behind the idea! “The Rankin River Canoe Rally has been a dream of mine since… well, since paddling on Boat Lake as a child with my dad and my grandparents. This event will give people a chance to explore this amazing and vibrant ecosystem and come to care even more about preserving our natural waterways.”
Despite rainy and windy conditions, the inaugural event was a tremendous success, with participants embracing the challenge and paddling through the weather with smiles on their faces. Nearly 20 boats took to the river in the rally’s first year, competing in a variety of friendly challenges including fastest overall time, most orienteering markers found, and the highest number of bird species identified along the route.
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Competition was spirited but friendly, with this year’s winners including:
- Andrew & Finn – Fastest Team
- Andrew & Darci – Most Orienteering Markers Found
- Tobin & Deb – Most Bird Species Identified
“It was awesome. Thanks to all who attended and I hope to see everyone and more next year,” said Jeff Wright, Chair of the Bluewater Education Foundation
The Bluewater Education Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers who helped make the event possible, both on and off the water. Their dedication and enthusiasm were instrumental in ensuring a safe and memorable experience for all participants. A special thanks to St John’s Ambulance for attending as well.
The Foundation also gratefully acknowledges the generous support of event sponsors:
- Suntrail Source for Adventure – Lead Sponsor
- Bikeface Cycling – Starting Line Sponsor
- Kelly & Kelly Law – Transportation Sponsor
- Under Pressure – Finish Line Sponsor
Special thanks are also extended to Community Foundation Grey Bruce for providing $5,000 in grant funding to help launch the event in its inaugural year.
“The support from our community continues to make events like this possible,” said Meagan Hayward, Coordinator of Strategic Initiatives of the Bluewater Education Foundation. “We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated, volunteered, sponsored, and supported the rally. Events like the Rankin River Canoe Rally create meaningful opportunities for people to connect with nature, build community, and enjoy the outdoors together.”
The Bluewater Education Foundation looks forward to growing the Rankin River Canoe Rally in the years ahead and continuing to provide engaging outdoor education and recreation opportunities throughout the region.
