Until 1996, when Bob began running the show at the Kayak Shop, he worked as the Ski School Director at Mount Seymour Resorts, Ltd. A true adventurer, Bob has spent months cycling through Europe, and he's done numerous multi-day paddling trips in a variety of spectacular places. In 1998, Bob started the Tuesday Night Races (TNR), encouraging paddlers of all levels to come out and participate in a series of fun and exciting races each week. Bob has worked hard to promote a strong and involved paddling community. This is particularly evident in the number of racers who partake in the post-race pub night where they watch the race they just rocked (or didn't…), revel over their prizes, and talk paddling in a casual, inviting atmosphere. When Bob isn't on his surf ski or spending quality time with his incredibly active family, he enjoys cycling and cross-country skiing. In an effort to better serve Vancouver's growing kayak community, Bob and business partner Erian Baxter opened Deep Cove Outdoors, Deep Cove's newest outdoor retailer. Bob is excited that Deep Cove Outdoors has now expanded to serve not only the paddling community, but also cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. His experience and passion for outdoor sports allows Bob to understand the specific sporting needs of those around him, and he's always willing to help people develop their sporting skills and adventurous ambitions.
Following her mother's entrepreneurial footsteps, Erian founded The Block, a trendy clothing store in Gastown, Vancouver. Several years later, she sold the business and turned her focus back to her roots in Deep Cove, becoming ever more involved in the Kayak Shop. While raising a vibrant and artistic family and working hard behind the scenes, Erian keeps the Kayak Shop on the straight and narrow. The importance of community to her is undeniable, and in 2001 Erian started the very popular Women on Water (WOW) paddling program. WOW began with a small group of local Deep Cove women with a passion for fun, fitness and kayaking. Today it has expanded to include women from communities across the Lower Mainland, and Erian is thrilled to have been a part of that from day one. Erian's love for retail shone through once again when she and business partner Bob Putnam decided to open the Kayak Shop's sister company, Deep Cove Outdoors.
A water child since birth, James has been guiding and instructing on water and snow for nearly a decade. With a passion for the mountains and the sea he feels there is no better place then B.C. and now calls Deep Cove in North Vancouver his home. Directing an ocean kayak school and an aboriginal tour company for the last couple years has kept him very busy, however, when there is even the slightest lull at work James is off chasing adventure surf kayaking or ski mountaineering. Being a leader in this industry means a lot to James, and he is most proud that with the help of other great leaders, thousands of new paddlers safely enter our industry each year.
Certification:
Mike has been working for Deep Cove Kayak School for the last two seasons. After completing the Outdoor Recreation Management Program at Capilano University; Mike worked as an instructor before taking the position of Assistant School Director. Mike's passion for kayaking comes from the amazing places a kayak can take you along with teaching all levels of paddlers. He hopes to continue visiting new paddling destinations while continuing to expand his skills through trips and courses.
Mike's Certifications Include:
In 1966 Ingrid Baxter created and was co-president of N.E. Thing Company Ltd., an art statement that exhibited widely in Canada, the USA and Europe. In 1981, while finishing a M.Ed. at UBC, she moved to Deep Cove. Ingrid needed a boat to get out on the water, and one day, while reading the newspaper, she found an ad for the Watson's Canoe & Paddle Boat Rental business. Deciding to jump at the opportunity, Ingrid suddenly found herself with 16 canoes, 6 paddleboats and 3 combo rowboats. She ran the business herself for many years, teaching canoeing and leading tours on Indian Arm. Her part-time help consisted mainly of family and Deep Cove locals. Safety, education and fun were the focus of her new endeavour, and when her husband Merv Ovesen retired, he pitched in to help out.
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