Canoe Kayak Canada introduced the PaddleALL program in 2006-2007 to encourage individuals with disabilities to pick up paddling. Today, PaddleALL can be found at 27 clubs across Canada- five of which are in Nova Scotia. 

The Cheema Aquatic Club in Waverly, NS is home to two PaddleALL Canoe’22 world podium finishers, 30-year-old Ashley Thomas, and 12-year-old Payton Dicks. In August, at the 2022 ICF Canoe World Championships Ashley took home gold and Payton captured bronze in the IIP Women 200m.   

Payton’s mom, Krista Dicks recalls the first time her daughter sat in a boat, it was the summer of 2018 and Payton was initially skeptical of the experience.   

“I remember the first day we drove to give the program a try, she told us this was going to be the only time ever she would come. She had been resistant to every extracurricular program thus far,” says Krista.   

“She got in a boat and went out to paddle one-on-one with a coach. She was doing amazing. At the end of practice, she explained from her boat, ‘I’m coming back here again.’”   

Payton quickly fell in love with the sport, and after a couple of years of training with Cheema Aquatic Club, she began to compete in local regattas.   

“She is the youngest female competitor and has worked steadily at doing a better personal best over the years,” said Krista.   

In addition to her Canoe 22’ win, Payton competed at the Canoe Kayak Canada Sprint National Championships in Shawinigan, QC. She entered four heats, made four finals and earned two silver and two bronze finishes.   

After witnessing her daughters PaddleALL success, this proud mom is passionate about the program’s ability to help people with special needs thrive.   

“Being on the water is very calming and so helpful for so many who have special needs,” says Krista.   

“This program has given Payton so much self-confidence. The ability for her to be successful at sports has given her a huge boost to her self-esteem. This program gives her a safe place to be herself, feel accepted and grow as an athlete.”   

What Payton values most is the feeling of acceptance the PaddleALL program provides.  

“It’s a place where you don’t need to be ashamed of who you are. Everyone is kind to you and helps you be successful. I like that my coaches want me to push myself to always do my best. I love PaddleALL” said Payton.   

Four years ago, Payton was unconvinced she would paddle and now she competes in national and international regattas. There is no doubt that PaddleALL makes an impact.   

For a list of clubs offering PaddleALL programs, visit: https://canoekayak.ca/paddle-all/