RICE CREEK BOAT CLUB

History:

Marathon canoe racing has strong roots in Minnesota, starting with Gene Jensen, Buzzy Peterson and the Ketters in the 1960s. And still the twin cities is a hotbed of competition, with weekly races and many regional races.

However, the average age of paddlers is probably over 50. We are the only canoe club in the midwest introducing and training youth in marathon canoe racing. Sprint kayak racing is an Olympic sport--and we are the only club within 500 miles (or more) where youth have an opportunity to train so they can represent our country at International canoe and kayak events.

Our Story:

Paddling is a perfect compliment to nordic skiing, as well as being just a great fitness tool for developing core strength. In 2007, High school nordic ski coaches Joe Manns, an assistant at Roseville, and Marsh Jones, an assistant at Irondale founded RCBC to provide their athletes with a unique way to stay in shape during the summer.

Our Success.

Since that time our athletes have won numerous National Marathon Championships for USCA, and we have ventured head-first into sprint kayak racing. We have 2 certified USAC/K instructors, daily practices, and currently have two young women who are vying for positions for the US National Junior Team USAC/K. In 2011 we recruited and welcomed para-athletes to our club--the International Canoe Federation made canoe/kayak an official event for the 2016 Para-Olympics, so we hope this grows interest in this sport.

Our Supporters:

We have been blessed to receive support from paddlers both locally and nationally with donated equipment and coaching. We had 35 athletes in our club in 2010. Our coaching staff is entirely volunteer, and the organization is run by parents of athletes.

Our Needs:

We would like to continue to develop interest in and particicpation in marathon canoe racing and sprint kayak racing at the local level. These are life-long, low-impact sports. We must invest in new equipment that will help us achieve our mission in the years to come. We need more than what the parents of those who participate can afford to give. This last year we sponsored 3 athletes completely, and also spent $1600 helping athletes cover travel costs to National competitions. We do not turn away any athlete for financial reasons.

Your donation will help us purchase club equipment so we can practice efficiently and safely while competing at the highest level at local, National, and International events.

Thank you!!

PS--We are welcoming new or interested paddlers (age 13-18) at an information meeting, 6:30 PM March 8 2012, Fairview Community Center, Roseville, MN.

PSS--We are a Minnesota based non-profit and 100% of your donation is tax deductible, 100% of your donation goes to our club, and 100% of your donation will be used for programs and equipment by our staff of non-paid parents and volunteeers!!