KSC shows off Dunrobin shoreline May 4

DUNROBIN SHORES – Life on the Ottawa River is pretty sweet, and on May 4 the Kanata Sailing Club (KSC) wants to share a taste of it with the public.

It’s been a busy spring for the KSC and the highlight of that work is when the club comes together to host its annual Open House, where visitors can tour the clubhouse, see the boats and talk to sailors.

The KSC was born Jan. 29, 1975 thanks to Doug Milne who wrote an article for the Kanata Standard on the joys of sailing. It encouraged residents of March Township to consider the idea of a sailing club.

Located at 1610 Sixth Line Rd. in Sheil McKee Memorial Park, the club was originally known as the March Sailing Club. The selected site was expected to be temporary at first, but has been their home for more than 40 years.

While the club may be considered small compared to other local sailing clubs, it offers something to members no other club does.

“A KSC membership lets you escape the stress of city living by sailing on the beautiful Ottawa River,” the KSC released in a statement. “Since the KSC has its own fleet, there’s no need to own a boat. If that’s not enough, our deck is a great spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful view – we have all the perks of a cottage with none of the hassle.”

The club also hosts junior, adult and family learn to sail programs.

Launch Day for the 2024 season was on Saturday, April 20.

“Last weekend, when we held out Launch Day, it was the usual state of affairs, in that water levels were too high to get all boats down to the beach,” KSC Commodore Deb McPhedran told West Carleton Online Tuesday (April 25).

That was the case at last year’s open house too, but many curious community members dropped by to learn about the club.

“The water is high at the beach so we can’t have any boats down here, but it’s a beautiful, sunny day,” KSC training director Ken Skublics told West Carleton Online at last year’s event. “We have lots of people coming out asking questions, so that’s good. There’s been a steady stream of people coming in since we opened our doors.”

McPhedran says it doesn’t matter where the Ottawa River is at, the open house is always a fun time for members and visitors.

“The Open House often consists of curious folk coming down to the club and checking out the vibe of the place: rustic, verdant, tranquil or animated depending on the day,” McPhedran said. “And seeing what a small sailboat looks like up close and personal. Most importantly perhaps, what are the people like who inhabit this place and enjoy it?”

The Open House will run rom 12 to 4 p.m.

And a week after that (May 11), the KSC’s new dock will arrive.

“Thanks to an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Capital Grant, the club was able to purchase a new T-shaped floating dock,” the KSC said. “The new dock is tentatively scheduled to be delivered and installed on Saturday, May 11.”