Waterway Exploration: Discovering Nature by Canoe
What I’m into: My idea of an adventure is canoeing. There’s something awesome about paddling through rivers and spotting wildlife along the way.
Being a provincial athlete in swimming opened my interest to try other sports and adventures such as open water swimming and other water sports. My parents, as SCUBA divers, and their passion and love for the marine world has given me first-hand water experience. I can still remember the many times to travel to different countries without skipping to visit the beach or boat out the ocean or lake. I used these experiences to help me become a competitive swimmer and create new opportunities such as paddle boarding and open water swimming.
Marcus, Bronze Award HolderHow the Award will get you there:
Goal: To navigate a challenging river route by canoe, utilizing paddling skills, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Mode of travel: Canoeing.
Environment: River.
Route idea: Launch your canoe from the river’s edge, setting off with your crew downstream. Your goal? Reach the end safe and sound. But watch out! The river’s full of surprises like rapids, rocks, and tricky currents. Work together to paddle smart, dodge obstacles, and steer clear of trouble. Take breaks to relax, snack, and soak in the scenery. And as you near the finish line, stay sharp for any last-minute challenges.
Preparation idea: Before hitting the water, study your route. Know the river’s quirks, dangers, and best paddling moves. Get your gear ready – life jackets, paddles, and maps are a must. Pack your stuff in waterproof bags to keep it dry. Check the weather, layer up, and tell someone your plans. Safety first!
Review idea: After your adventure, think back on the highs and lows. What went smoothly, and what threw you off course? Chat with your crew about teamwork and ways to improve. Capture memories with photos or a journal. Share your stories and tips with fellow paddlers online or in a magazine. You’ve conquered the river – celebrate your achievement!
Example Activity: Swimming
Example SMART Goal100 m in 3 minutes or less.
Example Assessor: Swim Coach
Example Log: Today, I swam 350 metres feeling stronger and more confident in my endurance.
ORB Category: Water Sports
ORB Subcategory: Swimming
Example Activity: Navigation and map reading
Example SMART Goal: Over the next three months, I will improve my navigation skills by completing a series of online orienteering courses and videos, learning how to use maps and compasses.
Possible Assessor: Outdoor Education Teacher
Example Log: Had fun today using the compass on my phone!
ORB Category: Environment/Nature
ORB Subcategory: Other -> Navigation Skills
Example Activity: River clean-ups
Example SMART Goal: Over the next three months, I commit to volunteering for at least one hour a week in river clean-up activities, actively participating in removing litter and debris from local waterways to contribute towards environmental conservation efforts.
Possible Assessor: City Volunteer Coordinator
Example Log: Today, I spent two hours collecting trash along the riverbank, filled up one garbage bag!
ORB Category: Environmental
ORB Subcategory: Working a clean up campaign
