but we make sure no one is left behind. The group stays together, and the pace is set by the slowest paddler. We encourage members to listen to their bodies and know their limits, and we watch for signs that someone may be slowing down or getting tired. It’s not about speed or competition — it’s about enjoying the water safely and at a pace that works for everyone.” Paddling can also improve mental wellbeing or mindfulness. “Paddling forces you to be present. You can’t be glued to a screen or thinking about tomorrow’s to-do list — the water demands your attention. That shift in focus helps people decompress and reconnect with themselves.” Community and Inclusivity On the water, club members watch out for each other. That can mean lending a hand at the launch, offering tips to a newer paddler, or cheering someone through their fi rst challenging conditions. Finding Freedom on the Water — How Kelly Rudolph and the Northwest Ohio River Runners Turned Paddling Into Community, Health, and Hope By Ed Conn When Kelly Rudolph slipped into a kayak for the fi rst time after back surgery, she didn’t just discover a new hobby — she found a lifeline. Living with a chronic condition that affects her body’s automatic functions and can cause fainting, Kelly had long thought the water was out of reach. A beginner’s class, a welcoming local club, and patient mentorship changed that. Today she leads the Northwest Ohio River Runners (NWORR), teaches paddling skills across the region, and uses the sport to promote safety, accessibility, and stewardship of northwest Ohio’s waterways. “A freedom unlike anything I had ever experienced,” Kelly’s paddling journey began in 2005, watching NWORR members launch from Point Place. Life delayed her fi rst try until after surgery, when she enrolled in an American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 1 class and joined the club. Paddling with others offered a safe environment to learn skills and build confi dence. To her surprise, Kelly discovered she could paddle without triggering the debilitating symptoms of her illness. “Kathy Morse met my endless questions and boundless enthusiasm with patience and encouragement,” Kelly says of an early mentor whose leadership kept the club afl oat as founding members aged out. Inspired by ACA instructors who were part of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s AUXPAD program, Kelly eventually joined the Auxiliary herself and became an ACA instructor — later stepping into the leadership role running the club’s Tuesday paddles. Balance On and Off the Water For Kelly, paddling is more than a physical activity; it’s a lesson in balance. “On the water, brute force rarely works; success comes from reading the conditions and using them to your advantage,” she explains. The sport builds core strength, mobility, and endurance without feeling like conventional exercise — and it provides a mental reset. “Even a short paddle can clear my head and help me refocus,” she says. Kelly has seen paddling help others recover from illness, rebuild stamina after surgery, and combat anxiety or burnout. The combination of movement, fresh air, and a supportive group creates an environment where members can push themselves safely and learn to listen to their bodies. A welcoming club for all skill levels NWORR’s mission is simple: provide a safe space for paddlers to learn, develop skills, and build community. Members range from complete beginners to seasoned kayakers; what unites them is respect for the water and for one another. The club launches most often from two Point Place locations — Howard Page 13 Pinkley Landing on Shoreland (Ottawa River) and Cullen Park (Maumee River and Grassy Island) — and runs monthly trips to other regional sites. Wind and water conditions give each outing a unique character, from calm wildlife fl oats to challenging, workoutlike paddles. “This year, we’ve expanded our schedule to include a monthly paddle at different locations around the Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan area. Some of these outings are beginner-friendly, while others are better suited for paddlers with more experience. Each location has its own personality, and wind conditions can completely change the feel — sometimes turning a calm stretch into a workout, or giving you a smooth, effortless ride.” Accessibility is key, especially making those who consider themselves beginners welcomed. “Every paddle is different in terms of experience level and physical effort, “We also connect through shared paddling experiences — whether it’s spotting wildlife, navigating tricky conditions together, or simply enjoying the peace of the river side by side. And when we’re not on the water, we stay connected through our Facebook group, where members share photos, plan outings, and offer advice.” Safety & Sustainability Safety is a priority for NWORR. “First and foremost — wear your life jacket,” Kelly emphasizes. “You may be a strong swimmer, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a PFD. Paddling is a wet sport, and it’s not if you’ll end up in the water, but when. Once you’re in, it’s virtually impossible to put a PFD on while trying to hold onto your boat and paddle. One of the most frequent sayings among paddlers is, “We’re all just in between swims!” — and I even have that quote printed on the back of my business card.” Continue to next page
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