Sydenham Lake Canoe Club Places at Ontario Team Trials

Kelli McRobert | Jun 19, 2025

The Ontario Team Trials for sprint canoe and kayak took place at the Rideau Canoe Club in Ottawa on May 31 and June 1, 2025, where paddlers from across the province braved cold, rainy, and windy conditions to compete for top rankings. Among them was Honour McQuay, a dedicated young athlete from the Sydenham Lake Canoe Club (SLCC), who secured an impressive third-place finish among all U16 Women’s Kayak competitors in Ontario.

Despite the challenging weather, Honour demonstrated resilience and determination, a testament to her months of rigorous training under the guidance of SLCC Head Coach James Hicks. Hicks, a high-performance sprint canoeist with a strong background in hockey, brings a wealth of experience to his coaching, understanding athlete development at every stage—from first-time paddlers to elite competitors. His approach extends beyond physical conditioning, offering invaluable insights into the reasoning behind workouts, goal setting, and the mental and emotional aspects of sports and racing. His leadership has shaped SLCC into a club where athletes push their limits and support one another in their pursuit of excellence.

Since May 1, Honour and Hicks have been on the water every morning and afternoon, building on a three-week training camp in Florida in March and an intensive winter training program. With each practice, Honour has refined her technique, strengthened her endurance, and prepared herself for the fierce competition ahead. Now, as she sets her sights on the upcoming summer regatta season, she continues to push forward with determination—an approach fostered by the coaching philosophy that has propelled SLCC athletes to new heights.

The Sydenham Lake Canoe Club, home to competitive paddlers aged nine and up, encourages young athletes to explore the world of sprint paddling. Crew boats offer an exciting opportunity for teamwork and skill development, and the club invites anyone interested in the Olympic sport to give it a try. Registration remains open for day camps, introductory sprint programs, and competitive training sessions at www.sydenhamlakecanoeclub.com.

As SLCC celebrates Honour’s achievement, the club looks forward to the continued growth of its athletes under Hicks’ expert guidance, proving once again that dedication, passion, and strong leadership can shape champions on and off the water.