Montreal to Quebec Kayak Challenge

Two years ago, when Mathieu Fortier, co-founder of Quebec City-based Young Musicians of the World, proposed a kayaking event on the mighty St. Lawrence River to raise funds for the organization’s at-risk youth music programs, “The board of directors thought I was crazy!” he laughs.

But Fortier, an avid kayaker, didn’t give up.

This August 13-16, the fruits of his efforts will be seen on the river on a far greater scale than he ever imagined. Registration for the first annual Montreal to Quebec Kayak Challenge opened mid-March, and already more than 90 paddlers have signed up for the event. “We are confident we will reach over 150 people,” says Fortier, making this the largest event of its kind in Quebec.

The Quebec Canoe and Kayak Federation, the CBC and famous French-Canadian pop singer Yann Perreau are on board. Boreal Designs has committed kayaks to whoever needs them, including free boats for self-organized teams of seven or more.

And the four-day event isn’t just attracting devoted paddlers. Fortier says its perfect for outdoor lovers of all stripes. Experienced guides and safety boats will accompany participants on the water. Fortier’s goal is to inform people about the incredible potential of this under-used resource on their doorstep.

The St. Lawrence stretches 260 kilometers between the province’s two most populous cities, Montreal and Quebec City. The Kayak Challenge will see experienced participants paddling 65 km a day, aided by the river’s current. New paddlers can opt for an easier, 32-km-per-day option, with bus shuttle making up the difference. Fortier and his team look after all the logistics, including meals, snacks, campsites at each day’s end, and transporation between the cities after the challenge. Participants will also be treated to performances by professional artists and students of the Young Musicians of the World.

To accomplish the event’s fundraising goal of more than $100,000 — used to continue offering programs to some 650 kids in under-privileged and at-risk communities throughout Quebec — each participant commits to raise $1,500 for Young Musicians of the World. An online interface on the Challenge’s website makes it easier for less experienced fundraisers to get involved.

Registration is open now and requires an initial $100 donation. Visit www.defikayak.org to learn more, or the event Facebook page for the latest news.