Touring in BC: South Cariboo Tour

 

On August 25 through 27 the first rowing tour in the interior of British Columbia took place, hosted by South Cariboo Rowing Club (SCRC) founders and members Jack and Brenda Jenkins.

The tour hit three lakes, Lac la Hache, just north of 100 Mile House, Lac des Roches and Bridge Lake, both southeast of 100 Mile House. This tour was truly a team effort in typical rowing spirit! Jack and Brenda Jenkins did much of the scouting of the lakes and general organization of this wonderful three-day event. Rowing BC secured funding to get boats transported to the sites and provided a tour guide, Will King.

Rowing Canada Aviron supported the tour by providing the touring 4x and 2x from the pilot club development initiative (also known as the "Rec Centre project") at Leduc Rowing Club in Alberta. Alberta Rowing Association also pitched in and generously brought its touring 4x and 2x and also transported the boats to the Lakes. Finally, Drew Harrison brought a touring single and double from Wintech ....what a team!

Despite some inclement weather and cold campers, spirits were high! The first day saw some lightning on the lake. This did not hinder anyone's attitude. In true "touring" spirit, boats were brought ashore, where a
kind local couple took our "tourers" into the shelter of their gazebo where blankets and wine were provided!

The next day, it rained (again) and the Lac des Roches tour wasn't to be, but at Bridge Lake a large tent, a ping pong table and hot chocolate were all it took to keep spirits high. Once the sky cleared crews hit Bridge lake to explore new territory. Much fun was had and talk of next year's event was already beginning. Drew (featured in the photo here on the far right and below) tried out a new boat for consideration for his next tour! (Where did he get that boat, anyway?!).

By day three, the weather had subsided allowing a long row on Bridge Lake to the provincial park. After a quick break on the park beach crews headed back to shore on a high note! Even though there were some setbacks with weather there is definitely a "Second Annual Cariboo Event" on the horizon. The main feedback consisted of being able to hit up a winery on a lake as part of the tour next year!

 

For more information, contact Jen Browett.