July 2 to 4, 2004 marks the third year for the Muskoka Paddlefest. Held in Bracebridge Bay Park and Kelvin Grove Park - at the foot of the falls in Bracebridge, it promises to be as well run and as inspiring as ever. Muskoka Paddlefest presents the Largest Outdoor Exposition of Canoes, Kayaks and paddling gear for sale in Ontario, along with some of Canada's top speakers and presenters, informative workshops and paddling clinics. It’s a chance to get in on some tremendous deals, as well as meet some like-minded paddling people and learn from the pros.

Weekend Highlights
Many of last year’s speakers will be there again this year, including Wipper, Rolf and Debra Kraiker, Becky Mason, Kevin Callan, Hap Wilson and many others. The weekend is still filling with seminars and workshops.

  The kid's program has expanded, with an exciting Cardboard Canoe build and race along with slideshows, canoe ballet demos, book signings, on-water demonstrations and lots of great gear. Be sure to check out the full program listing to view all the details.

  The Paddle Art Auction is a go again this year with new creations by 24 different artists - these paddles are certainly collector pieces.

  As some of you may already know, PaddleFest is a fundraising initiative for Camp "BUCKO" - a summer camp run in August for children recovering from burn injuries. As a camp that relies solely on the generosity of individuals and private organizations, Paddlefest coordinators  Jodie, and Sue Lalonde are enthusiastic about supporting BUCKO again this year. Thanks to the great attendance in year 2 and the overwhelming generosity of participants during the first Paddle Art Auction , they were able to give Camp BUCKO $9000 in cash (That's a 2 year total of over $15,000 for the camp). The Muskoka Paddlefest event is free to attend but donations are certainly appreciated, (please note that some workshops and on-water clinic have fees).

  Over the past couple of years people have asked Sue and Jodie "why did you start Paddlefest". The answer is simple and right from their hearts. They lost a close friend in the attacks on the World Trade Centre on September 11^th, and while Paddlefest is not a memorial event, the Lalondes needed to do something to help others. Camp BUCKO has become their cause. “These kids are true survivors and heroes in our eyes,” explain Sue and Jodie,  “We would encourage anyone to get involved and do what we did - share your talents, skills, contacts and yes even your money to help others. I've said it before regarding BUCKO - if you feel inspired to get involved you'll know what to do. It's changed our lives.”

  Muskoka Paddlefest has really become a meeting place for like-minded paddlers and basically a gathering of friends. The Lalondes hope that you and your family will join them and their friends to help some great kids, and to celebrate Canada's and Muskoka's paddling heritage.

Coordinators Sue and Jodie would like to thank the many sponsors and friends who've helped make Muskoka PaddleFest a reality. A special thank-you to the Ontario Recreational Canoeing Association (ORCA) for sanctioning the event.

See you on the water.

For more information we can be reached by telephone at 705-385-8211 or by email at turtlepaddle@sympatico.ca.