From the ORCKA Board of Directors:
We are certainly living in unique times as we deal with the COVID 19 situation. ORCKA hopes that you all remain healthy and happy as we live through this challenge!
As the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve, ORCKA has suspended the ORCKA Instructor Recertification Program for 2020.
At this time ORCKA will retain the ORCKA Recertification Clinic at Camp Pinecrest on Sunday, 20 September 2020 which will be run in conjunction with the ORCKA Strategic Planning Weekend.
Please note that the functions of the ORCKA office are being accomplished remotely for the time being. We will keep you updated as the situation changes.
Participating in ORCKA as an organization and conducting ORCKA programming is the best way to promote safe, knowledgeable, and enjoyable paddling in Ontario.
At this point in time, ORCKA recommends that all ORCKA Organizational Members suspend their 2020 paddling programs until the COVID-19 situation is resolved. It is ORCKAs’ assessment that the risks to one's health in running any paddling programs are significant and not worth the risk of transmitting and catching COVID-19.
We are all looking forward to things getting back to normal -- the cards & badges and instructor course material you order now can always be kept for later use. ORCKA recommends that we all prepare for the upcoming paddling season while being socially responsible in accordance with the Government of Canada’s direction regarding our collective health and safety.
In the meantime we encourage you, while being responsible about your social distancing, to take a few minutes and reflect on past canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding adventures. Haul out your paddling gear and give it a good once over to ensure that it is ready to hit the water! Be proactive in creating and sharing statements of confidence that the upcoming paddling season will be superb! Share some detailed plans with your community regarding your upcoming season; let everyone know what you are looking forward to -- new gear, new trips, new programming!
Take the time now to plan for a shortened 2020 Paddling and ORCKA Program Delivery Season. At this point in time, plan on being able to conduct some form of paddling instruction after 15 July 2020. It will be a much shorter and more compressed season! Think outside of the box in order to fit in as much activity as possible in a short timeframe.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Have a wonderful day and dream about open water - rumour has it that it is waiting for us all, in a number of locations throughout the Province of Ontario!