The roots of Mountain Equipment Coop (MEC) date back to the early 1970’s when a group of west coast mountaineers made a decision to do business differently, and they turned an unconventional retail model into a thriving business. Bringing proper climbing and sporting equipment to all adventurist was the passion of MEC. Along with the equipment side of things, MEC wanted to make sure that getting people educated and active was just as important.
On Saturday June 27th, 2015, the MEC Paddlefest took over John Peake Park and Chestermere Lake. This is MEC’s fifth year hosting Paddlefest and second year hosting the event in Chestermere. Previously MEC hosted the event at Carburn Park in Calgary and they are excited to be able to work with the City of Chestermere in order to hold the event here in Chestermere.
Tara McFadden of MEC says, “MEC Paddlefest works to raise the profile of paddling, outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship and water safety in Southern Alberta; which benefits the entire paddling community. Our goal is to inspire everyone to lead active outdoor lives!”
McFadden goes on to explain, “MEC Paddlefest showcases paddling as a sport that anyone can do and the potential of introducing people to a new sport they may not have considered before. MEC advocates getting people paddling and having fun on the water and ultimately being more healthy and active. Also, it is a chance for people to demo boats all day completely for free. This means, if you are considering buying a boat you have actually have the opportunity to paddle it before purchasing it”.
With the weather fully cooperating, the lake was full of people that were testing out a new product or were taking their first try at paddling. MEC says that the Paddlefest is all about engaging the community, working with local businesses and introducing paddling to everyone in all its forms and it seems this event was a success yet again.
