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A C A I NS T RUC TOR PR OFI LE Janet Burnett Cowie
»» ACA Level 4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer Educator, Level 4 River Canoe Instructor, Level 3 River Canoe Instructor Trainer and Advanced Swiftwater Rescue Instructor
How long have you been in paddlesports? I started whitewater tandem canoeing in 1983 as a freshman in college at the University of Massachusetts. I formed a network of paddling friends there, and the connection, common love of paddling and adventure have made us life-long friends.
What defines paddlesports for you? The adventure industry, like water, is never static. People and teaching techniques are always changing and moving. How we manage our sport and get information across to new students is so dynamic—it isn’t the boats or paddles that intrigue me; it is the people.
Who has influenced you most in your paddling career? My college outdoor program at University of Mass is the most influential catalyst for my paddling career. There was a network of interesting and encouraging people to make paddling social and enjoyable, as well as challenging. I graduated with a business degree, and that, plus background in teaching, has developed into my passion for paddlesports instruction. Bruce Lessels at ZOAR is another person who has made a big impact on my paddling life. He has a very open view of paddlesports and encouraged me to explore new teaching techniques and push myself into new places as a paddler and as an educator.
What do you consider your hometown run? I live on the Deerfield River, and have had many, many memorable runs there. While paddling there, I now see my old students and kids from my afterschool programs who have become very talented paddlers. It’s a blessing to have a connection with these people and to realize that I’ve played a part in influencing them, it’s a rewarding feeling. I have also had the opportunity to paddle the Futaleufú in Chile. The people of Chile, the scenery and the overall culture were breathtaking and the experience of a lifetime.
What is one place you still aspire to paddle? At this point in my life, the most important goals are not exactly where I aspire to paddle, but with whom. My son is now seven, and I want to help him enjoy the water as much as I do. My next journey is getting him involved in this exciting community.
ACA Member Benefit! Y
our ACA membership allows you to access Sugar Island, located in the heart of the Thousand Islands in Gananoque, Ontario, Canada. It is an international tourism destination near the St. Lawrence Islands National Park. The 35-acre island is privately owned by the ACA and is available to all members for year-round use.
Getting to Sugar Island is as much a part of your trip as is your
stay. The island is located approximately one mile from the Canadian mainland. You can paddle out to the island or the great folks at Misty Isles Lodge in Gananoque, Ontario, offer a water taxi service to the island.
The island is rustic, with no modern amenities. Cabins and platforms are available for use.
It is a truly pristine, pure environment with crystal clear water, clean air and beautiful night skies. The island has some of the best fishing holes on the Saint Lawrence River. Swim, snorkel, fish, paddle, sail or simply relax—it is a truly fun getaway. For more information please visit
americancanoe.org/SugarIsland or e-mail
campsugarisland@gmail.com
2012 annual encampment: July 22–August 4
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