![[Photo - passing the paddle]](community/lori and jason 005.jpg "[Photo - passing the paddle]")
The new owners of Jenda Paddlesports are now set up and ready to welcome customers. Lori and Jason Kirby are keen, learning fast and are looking forward to the challenges and rewards of starting their new business venture. Previous owners Jane and Phil Putman are paddling off into the sunset and to retirement adventures. “It is an exciting time for all of us” says Phil, “but also a bit scary, we have been in the business for a long time and will definitely miss it!.”
Jane and Phil started the business many years ago with just a few canoes and just a few dollars. The business grew almost by itself with incredible support from the community, lots of hard work and a bit of luck. New materials have been developed by the boat builders and boats can now be built to suit every budget. Kayaking really took off as people discovered the peace and quiet of a misty river in the morning and innovative designs can now accommodate every type of paddling and every type of paddler.. Rowing shells, paddle boats and all types of accessories were added to the inventory as the business grew.
Lori and Jason had a couple of careers well launched, but somehow always wanted to “paddle their own canoe”. They married a year ago and after a honeymoon in South America came home wondering if the 9 to 5 was for them. They wanted something a bit more creative and a bit more outdoorsy. They stumbled onto the Jenda.com website ….… and the rest (as they say) is history.
Lori and Jason have lots of plans. They will continue the traditions started by Jane and Phil – great customer service, great prices, and supporting events in the community such as Kayaking for Cancer, the OFCC river cleanup and so forth, but they also plan to expand into new areas. They are considering canoe repair services, canoe building courses, paddling and safety courses, organized trips, canoe trailer constuction and expanding into whitewater gear and boats.
“We wish them much success and hope they enjoy our business as much as we did!” says Phil.
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