In what can only be described as the ultimate test of stamina, adventure and pure Shuswap spirit, a group of rowers from the Salmon Arm Rowing Club embarked on an unforgettable day of multi-sport action that spanned nearly 100 kilometres and incorporated four exhilarating recreational activities that offered breathtaking views of the region.
The epic journey began at 6 a.m. on April 5, with a bike ride from Salmon Arm to the iconic Larch Hills chalet south of town. Joined by other passionate skiers, the group glided effortlessly through the Larch Hills’ famous trails, including a couple of laps through Bilbo’s Bog. They finished with a tour of Ermine’s Frolic before returning to the chalet, taking in the crisp mountain air before gearing up for the next leg of their adventure.
Leaving the snow behind, the rowers mounted their bikes and followed scenic trails leading from Larch Hills to Salmon Arm’s renowned South Canoe bike trails. With heart-pumping speed and skill, they conquered the thrilling Sweet Tears, Factual Acts, Mo Budda and Flying Nun trails.
“We got low on our bars and ripped out to Canoe Beach on the TCH,” said rower Jan Thingsted, quickly shifting gears and preparing for the next stage of the tour: a row on Shuswap Lake.
At Canoe Beach Park, the rowers were greeted by teammates who eagerly awaited their arrival to launch a sleek eight-oared rowing shell. With calm waters reflecting the surrounding beauty, the crew set off with precision and strength from the park to the Salmon Arm wharf.
“The eight is the quintessential craft for speed and teamwork,” said coach David Miege of the Salmon Arm Rowing Club. “The boat can reach speeds sufficient to pull a water skier, but only when each person commits to rowing in perfect time with their teammates.”
Curious onlookers gazed in awe as the 20-meter-long rowing craft was carried from the water and through the parking lot past the Prestige Inn – a sight that certainly piqued the interest of passersby.
But the adventure didn’t stop there! After docking, the rowers hopped back on their bikes and pedalled to Anvil Coffee, where a well-deserved break awaited. They picked up a few avid cyclists at Skookum Bike & Ski, and the crew continued their journey along Foothills Road, past the old Mt. Ida Hall, making a pit stop at a private golf range to swing a few clubs and add yet another sport to the day’s already impressive lineup.
In total, the rowers covered a staggering 83 kilometres, with 900 meters of vertical climb, embracing the very best of the Shuswap’s recreational offerings. They were able to enjoy four seasons of activity in one day: road biking, skiing, mountain biking, gravel biking, rowing, hiking, picnicking and golf!
Capturing all the action from above was local drone expert Craig McBride of CM Productions, who expertly piloted his drone to film stunning aerial footage of the event. This dynamic content will soon be used to produce a promotional video highlighting the Shuswap’s diverse outdoor activities, drawing attention to its boundless opportunities for adventure.
As the rowers wrapped up their incredible day, it was clear the Shuswap isn’t just a place to visit – it’s a destination for those ready to embrace adventure in all its forms. There’s something for everyone in this outdoor paradise.
David Miege is a member of the Salmon Arm Rowing Club and a recent recipient of Sport BC President's Award.
