Frequently Asked Questions

Swimming Session 1 programs starts July 5th.

All paddling groups start July 5th. Atom and Peewee paddlers start July 2nd.

The staggered start of the programs enables us to get underway in an organized fashion.

There will be a "Fun Day" on July 21st.

The paddling program ends August 27th with Bantam/Peewee Champs Aug. 12-14 and Atom Champs Regatta on August 21st.

National Sprint Canoe/Kayak Championships will be held August 25th - 28th at Wascana Racing Canoe Club in Regina, Saskatchewan.

CANMAS (for Masters) will be held on August 29th in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The week of August 23-27 will have some special events and activities to end the summer.

Why do all paddlers have to pay CKC dues even if they do not want to compete?<Back>

All paddlers must pay the CKC dues whether or not they are competing. The dues go to the Atlantic Division and Canoe Kayak Canada, the governing body, to assist in the operation, (regatta, training support, infrastructure, etc) promotion and development of the sport on a Provincial, National and International level as well as providing insurance while participating in related paddling activities. These fees are not negotiable.

At what age can my child start the paddling program? Do they need to be a strong swimmer?<Back>

A child must be at least 8 years of age on January 1, 2009. They should have completed Red Cross Level 7 swimming badge or have the equivalent skills. If required, an assessment can be arranged to determine these skills.

What are the additional coaching fees all about for the paddlers in the Training Groups?<Back>

A If your child is in one of the competitive training groups there is an additional coaching fee of $120 beyond the paddling program fee to cover the extra hours of coaching received. This fee is paid by the parent for each athlete participating in a competitive training group every month, 10 months of the year, and $70 during July and August.

Do my children need lifejackets or lifebelts to paddle?<Back>

All paddlers in the Bantam, PeeWee and Atom age groups (under 14) must wear a flotation device. Parents must provide lifejackets for paddlers in the Atom group (under 10). Lifebelts can be purchased from the Club for PeeWee and Bantam paddlers as part of the Paddler's Starter Kit.

How many people paddle a War Canoe? What is a bun used for?<Back>

A war canoe consists of 14 paddlers and a coxswain. It's a real team effort. The bun is placed under your knee to cushion it and can be purchased as part of the Paddler's Starter Kit.

Who participates in regattas? Where do they take place and how do I get there?<Back>

A Regattas are lots of fun. We encourage all paddlers to attend regattas and help out their team members. Paddlers should be ready for their races and be prepared to be a spare. Each regatta is for a specific age group. Most regattas are within 20 to 30 minutes of Maskwa and paddlers must find their own way to the regatta. It is expected that those paddlers who are attending a regatta help load and unload the boat trailer before and after the regatta.

Can my child attend the programs starting in July if I have not paid for my membership in full?<Back>

No, your child will be unable to attend the swimming or paddling programs when they begin. He/she will be asked to come back once you have paid your membership in full.

Do I have to pay for my personal canoe to be stored in a boat bay? What about personal racing kayaks?<Back>

Personal recreational boats have been stored in the past for a rental fee. As our programs and participation continues to grow space for the storage of these larger boats is now at the point that storage can only be accommodated on an exception basis. This would apply to recreational kayaks, canoes, wind surfers etc. Personal racing kayaks/canoes are stored at a reduced charge of $40.00 only if you are registered in a
paddling program.

How do I get signed up for the Master Stroke Improvement Class?<Back>

The Master Stroke Improvement Swimming class is for people 19 years and older. This program will start in Session 2 if enough people are interested. Please indicate on the swimming form that you are interested and the instructor will be contacting you by phone.

Why do I have to pay extra for the Swimming classes other than Red Cross Levels 1 to 10?<Back>

You have to pay an extra fee for the Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross & Distinction because there are study materials required for these courses and examiners are hired to test the participants.

What if I'm not sure what level my child's swimming is?<Back>

The lifeguards will be on duty on June 28 - 30 and can assess children during this time.

Does my membership allow me to bring family, friends, caregivers & their children, or children I care for to Maskwa free of charge? What about guests?<Back>

Only people listed on your membership form may come to Maskwa free of charge. Guest passes are required for the others. Two guest passes are provided with each membership. They can be used for either single guests or for a family. Additional guest passes can be purchased at a cost of $4 per person or $10 per family. A guest can visit a maximum of 3 times per year. If they plan to come again they must purchase a membership. Caregivers must purchase a membership in order to participate in paddling or swimming programs, or to come to Maskwa on their own.

Why do children under the age of 13 as of January 1, 2009 require supervision when not participating in programs?<Back>

Though there are coaches & lifeguards at the Club they have a wide open lake area to supervise which increases the safety issue. Children under 13 require supervision by a Parent or Guardian (Adult over the age of 19). We feel by age 13 children can be responsible for their own safety.

Who qualifies for a Basic Single Membership?<Back>

Anyone over the age of 13 as of January 1, 2009 who can take care of him / herself.

Why does Maskwa need Fundraising and Corporate Sponsors?<Back>

The revenues raised from registration are not enough to cover the operation costs of the Club. We depend on funds generated from fundraisers such as the Annual Wreath Sale, bottle drives, auctions, etc. and our Corporate sponsors to keep our Club in operation. Can you or your employer help us by donating time, materials or funds?

Do lessons run all day long for our children?<Back>

No, often children stay for part of the day, go home and return later in the day for another practice.

Is there an Orientation Night for the summer program?<Back>

Yes, the orientation night will be held on Thursday, June 24th at 7pm at the Club. Parents of children involved in the paddling and swimming programs are encouraged to attend - especially first year members.