The 2026 paddle honouring Algonquin Chief Pierre-Louis Constant Pinesi begins on July 5 at noon at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau and concludes July 10 on the Kahnawà:ke reserve (south of Montreal). In its third year, ONEC’s Paddling Director, Karen Butterfield, will be among the 34 paddlers travelling 180 km in three traditional 34-foot Montreal canoes.

As part of the New Horizons for Seniors Big Canoe program, ONEC is offering free spots for those aged 55+ to participate in a local outing recognizing and supporting this event.

• Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (including 1.5–2 hours on the water)

• Includes: Post-paddle social with refreshments at the ONEC waterfront room

• Registration: Email paddling@onec.ca (first come, first served; confirmation by return email)

We had a great turn out for Monday's power paddle. Thank you to @Marie Dozois, @Doug Balmer @Josie @Katlijn Versavel, and @Nathalie Nadeau Mijal for making it a fun session.

We enjoyed the overcast weather, which meant less contending with other boats. We stopped off at the Rideau Falls and continued to the Ottawa Rowing Club (about 6km round trip). Part of the group decided to check out the locks and Parliament (about 8.5 km round trip).

We found out there is an NCC swim zone right by the Locks and it looks like there is an ice cream stand there.

Just a reminder that Gillian hosts the Social Paddles on Wednesday and Fridays (BBQ at the pavilion afterwards). It's a lot of fun and has a great vibe!