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Learn to SUP in Victoria, BC

For the first time in BC, Soldier On will be collaborating with SUP Victoria to offer an introduction to stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). We are excited to give Soldier On members in the Greater Victoria Region the opportunity to try paddle boarding in a safe, beginner-friendly paddle-boarding session. Participants will gain both mental and physical benefits while enjoying the serene setting of Thetis Lake Regional Park on the 20th of July, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT.

This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

The objective of this activity is to give participants the opportunity to learn about proper paddle boarding techniques, water safety, and to progress from entry-level paddle boarding skills (sitting, kneeling, standing) while touring the warm waters of Thetis Lake.

This event serves as a beginner friendly option, where participants can sit, kneel, or stand on the board.

Rental equipment (life jacket, paddleboard, waterproof bag and paddle) will be provided to the participants the day of the event.

Assistance throughout the event will be provided courtesy of SUP Victoria.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to six.

Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from within one hour of Victoria, BC (Victoria geographical area) who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Serving Members
Medical clearance may be required by your chain of command.

Mental & Physical Requirements
Participants must be able to tolerate two hours of light paced activities for one day in a row. Applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the event, and must be able to tolerate sitting, kneeling, or standing while holding a paddle without being in violation of their MELs.

Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.
 
Nomination Forms must be received by Soldier On no later than June 29.
Express your interest here.
 

COVID-19
Soldier On events are planned in accordance with municipal, provincial, territorial and federal public health measures (PHM) and regulations as well as the Canadian Armed Forces health policy and guidelines. The health and safety of Soldier On participants and staff, PSP staff, and CAF TG personnel are paramount. While specific safety precautions for each event will depend on the scope, scale and location of the event, the utmost care will be undertaken to ensure the risk associated with the spread of COVID-19 is very low.

Specific precautions, rules, regulations and observances will be communicated to selected participants for this specific camp in due course, but all applicants must be prepared to:

  • Be familiar with, and adhere to current PHM regulations and guidance;
  • Complete the respective provincial / territorial or federal government COVID-19 self-assessment tool before attending the event;
  • Refrain from participating in a Soldier On event if they have tested positive for COVID-19, have come in contact with someone that has tested positive for COVID-19 and/or are experiencing symptoms of the virus;
  • Practice physical distancing during activity, including the use of non-medical mask when appropriate;
  • Follow all safety precautions provided by Soldier On and its sport service providers;
  • Adhere to a stringent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and perform rigorous hand hygiene;
  • Inform Soldier On immediately if you are not feeling well.

Soldier On, during the conduct of this activity, shall:

  • Ensure that the event is conducted following the current PHM regulations and guidelines of the location in question;
  • Ensure that all staff and participants are using PPE properly and following necessary protocols;
  • Soldier On will cease the event if participants do not respect any of the health and safety protocols that are in place;
  • Ensure PPE, hand sanitizer and disinfectant supplies are available and are being used;
  • Continue to monitor the further provincial lifting of or changes in restrictions which may affect their operations;
  • Track physical interactions (time/date/attendees/location) on physical activity log.

Confirmation details
The event OPI will confirm in writing with the participants selected for this activity. A joining instruction will be issued prior to event; ensuring applicants are authorized to participate IAW applicable policies & eligibility criteria.

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