Returning to Keeners, by Marko Suchy

A long time ago, I was a Keener. By a long time I mean three years; which may not seem that long to some, but I have changed a lot over those three years.

When I arrived to Keenerville as a thirteen year old, I was the second youngest; only to be outdone by a boy named Kielen. Kielen just happened to be one of top Kayakers in the US, and at one year younger than me, he proved to me and all the other keeners that my kayaking deficiencies were not due to age. Understandably, I was shy and introverted. I rarely spoke when I wasn’t spoken to, and I found myself often confused by the humor of my peers. Of course I pretended to understand and laughed along with them in the name of camaraderie. One of my clearest memories from my past keeners experience was the pit that formed in my stomach as we scouted the first rapid I ever saw on the Ottawa. The thing I remember best about keeners was the courage that I had to muster to overcome the fear I experienced on that first day.  

Upon my arrival at keeners just two days ago, I found myself quickly acclimating to the climate at keeners. I met my cabin mates and we quickly delved into conversation about the character and style oozing from the walls in our cabin, along with who we were and what we liked doing. (Our cabin, Istanbul, is the oldest in Keenerville and has been around since keeners first started.) I’ve already remembered almost everyone’s name, and find myself to be comfortable with everyone, both on and off the water.  I have had great experiences meeting new friends from all over, and introducing myself and learning about them.

Upon reflection of my previous and current time at keeners I find old memories and new experiences clashing. My memories of social awkwardness have been replaced by a social grace I have honed over the past three years. But one thing about keeners remains starkly similar. Upon my first run on the river, I immediately recognized the pit forming in my stomach, the same as all those years ago. Here inlays the beauty of Whitewater. No matter how much I’ve changed, I still need to muster the same courage I mustered so many times before to overcome the challenge that is set in front of me. Whether it comes from river running, surfing, or meeting new people, I know that being a keener this year will teach me to stay courageous: socially, mentally, and physically.