Home > News > Recognition of a Lifetime of Dedication

Recognition of a Lifetime of Dedication

News

Congratulations to Claudia Kerckhoff van Wijk for winning the World Paddle Lifetime Achievement Award!

I am still happiest when in my kayak!
-Claudia Kerckhoff van Wijk

We’re excited to announce that our very own Claudia Kerckhoff van Wijk has received the World Paddle Lifetime Achievement award. There is truly nobody more deserving of being recognized for her participation and contribution to the sport of whitewater paddling.

She has had a very successful slalom and white water kayaking career; with medals in the Canadian Championships, Pan American Championships, and World Championships. For over 40 years she has lead the Madawaska Kanu Centre and inspired hundreds of paddlers to pursue their whitewater passions. Additionally, with the help of her husband, Dirk van Wijk, she has seen OWL Rafting built from the ground up. Claudia continues to use her influence in the whitewater world to promote ecological change and unity within the paddling communities.

It should also be noted that Claudia is the first woman to have ever received this award and is an empowering role model for female paddlers throughout the world. In an interview with the World Paddle Awards, Claudia notes “Giving back to the sport that gave so much to me, is a natural transition. I enjoy it immensely!”

Congratulations Claudia!

Reviews

					A great time.  I highly recommend MKC This was my 3rd, five day white water kayaking trip with MKC.  It was another fabulous week. 

I always choose the all inclusive option.  I camp, but there are a number of indoor options for those who prefer that.  I select the full meal plan, as I really don't want to do my own cooking before I paddle, or after a long day on the water. Don't let the young cooks worry you. (They're students working the summer months. Some of them are in culinary arts training.)  The meals are better that a lot of restaurants.  There's always vegetarian options at every meal.  I like this because, and I like variety, and sometimes I want a change.

It doesn't matter what your skill level is, you'll have fun and will learn.  On this last trip, there was a couple in their 80s, who wanted a new adventure to try out.  How great is that.  The instructors/guides always give positive feedback.  You'll never hear you did anything wrong.  (Typically, you all ready figured that out.)  The guide will say something like: "Try this technique, and see how you like it."  The guide will then demonstrate the technique a couple of times, and watch you trying it, while shouting encouragement to you.  Plus, the rest of the people in your group will be cheering you on.  When someone in the group does their first practice roll, or any combat roll, the cheers are thunderous.  The grin on the person who just did the roll, says it all.  

This year I was in seniors week. (I'm 73.)  Virtually everyone had their own equipment.  No worries if you need gear.  MKC has excellent equipment, and will outfit you with everything you need, appropriate to your experience level. If you want to try a  performance boat, they'll let you try one.

All in all, it's a great experience.  I plan to return next year for my 4th time.

Give it a try!

Alan - Registered Maine Guide in Sea Kayaking
read moreread less
Sky K
9/08/2024
					A great facility for an active family reunion. We are a large family (22 members) and the MKC absorbed our whole gang with

efficiency and excellent service.    We had 16 family members guided for 3 days in

white water canoe skills with three amazing guides.  They loved it and everyone 

could maneuver  white water with great skill at the end of three days.   

MKC is known for the excellent food it serves and we were all super impressed with every meal served over the three full days.   Thanks MKC staff for making us all feel so welcome.    You made our family reunion and MOST MEMORABLE ONE.    Jackie F.
read moreread less
621jacquelinef
8/12/2024
					Wonderful time at Madawaska Family Rafting Wednesday, July 31 2024 @ 12:30pm - 2:30pm We went rafting with our 10 year old twin granddaughters and friends Andy, Dianne, Maggie and Abbie.  Our guide Alix was excellent.  Alix explained every detail of the trip before we entered the rapids.  It is very safe for all ages.  We had a great time and will not forget our memories.  We plan on making this a yearly event.  Thank you to Madawaska Family Rafting for the wonderful time! Andrew and Marlene
read moreread less
Marlene S
8/08/2024