Kajak revivalist recognized with provincial award

Press Release

July 12, 2023

Noah Nochasak, Nunatsiavut’s former Project Lead for the Kajak Revival Program (Piuliniattik Kajannik), has been recognized with this year’s Paddle Newfoundland and Labrador (PNL) Jim Price Passion for Paddling Award.

The award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated real excitement and enthusiasm for paddling in the province, and has inspired others to take up the sport of paddling or improve their current paddling skills. It was created to honour Jim Price’s contribution to the paddling community.

Noah started the Nunatsiavut Kajak Revival Program in 2017 to provide Inuit with opportunities to develop kayaking skills, both in paddling and in construction. During the summers in Nain, he offers training from introductory to advanced levels for both youth and adults. The program follows a Paddle Canada standard with added Inuit cultural components such as rifle use from kayaks and paddling in polynyas and at the sina (ice edge).

“Noah’s efforts and dedication to this activity are truly inspiring,” said President Johannes Lampe. “We are proud of Noah in his efforts to revive the Kajait tradition to ensure it’s never lost from our culture.”

Background

• Noah is a certified Level 2 kayak instructor, a Level 2 guide, and a graduate of the Adventure Guide program at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC.
• Jim Price was an expert instructor and instructor trainer in the disciplines of canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. He had a true passion for paddling and actively shared this passion with the paddling community until his sudden passing in 2015.
• Paddle Newfoundland and Labrador (PNL) is a canoe, kayak and stand up paddle board club in the province and is the representative for Paddle Canada.

Media Contact:
Janice Goudie
Communications Assistant
Janice.Goudie@nunatsiavut.com
(709) 896-8582

ILR4