New Rundle Park boat launch adapted for accessible kayaking, paddle boarding

A new adaptive boat launch opened in Rundle Park for kayakers and paddleboarders in wheelchairs who previously faced difficulty getting to the water.

A boat launch in Rundle Park has been adapted to make kayaking and paddleboarding accessible to people of all abilities.

The project was funded by the city and provincial government and was organized in partnership with the Edmonton Paddling Centre, Whitewater Paddlers, and the Paralympic Sports Association.

Before the adaptive launch, Chris Gossos, president of Whitewater Paddlers, said they would have to pull boats up the hill and launch them by hand.

“Sometimes it takes four people to pull them up the hill, so that was back-breaking work,” said Gossos at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the boat launch Monday evening.

Emily Tsoukals has been kayaking for about five years.

“I just love the feeling of the water, and it gives me a sense of freedom,” Tsoukals told CTV News Edmonton, adding that the launch will make it easier for both the participants and the volunteers.

“It’s going to be much more accessible.”

While the launch is not open to the public, those interested in trying it out may do so by registering for any of the free upcoming “Try It” events through the Paralympic Sports Association.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Darcy Seaton