Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I join MHCC? 
Founded in 1993, Mountain Home Canoe Club is a well-established club with a diverse membership ranging in age from 25 to 70+. We have excellent coaching and host paddling clinics on our dock which will help you develop your paddling skills throughout the year no matter your skill level. Our equipment and dock facilities are top notch with easy access in and out of the water for our canoes. Our club house is roomy, has a private dressing room, and provides our members with free parking during practice day or night and during holidays. Our paddlers have access to restrooms and showers before and after practice. Mountain Home has a fully stocked dock with six OC-6 fiberglass (“spec”) canoes, two unlimited (carbon fiber) OC-6 and ten+ OC-1 and OC-2 small boats for members' use. And, to top it off, we paddle on the Columbia River which offers many different water conditions and helps to prepare us for races in other regions.
Where are you located and how far are you from downtown Portland?
We are located at the intersection of 33rd Drive and Marine Drive at McCuddy's Marina. You can also take I-5 North to Exit 307
Marine Drive/Delta Park. We are about eight miles north of downtown and about a 16-minute drive from there.
When and how often do you practice?
We practice three times per week, Monday 6pm-8pm, Wednesday 6pm-8pm, and Saturday 9am-12pm. We usually gather at the docks 15 minutes before practice starts to prepare and load canoes into the water. Race teams may schedule additional practice sessions during the race season.
How much does it cost to join MHCC?
Dues may vary from year to year and are established by the Board of Directors. Membership is based on the calendar year, January – December. Dues are prorated for new members joining during the year. Please check the Membership Page for current dues.
Can I try outrigger first to see if I like it before paying for a full membership?
Yes. Please join us for up to one month of free practice sessions. Email our New Paddler Contact and check the Guest Paddler Information page HERE. Note that during the race season (typically April – August) we may have practice cancellations or small groups. The New Paddler Contact will help guide you on picking an appropriate practice to join.
If I don't have an outrigger paddle, can I borrow one to try outrigger paddling?
Yes. We have a number of club paddles.
Where do you race?
We race wherever our crews want to go, e.g. California, Hawaii, Bora-Bora, Washington, Oregon, Canada. Most of our races are in the Pacific Northwest. Check the regional outrigger association, PNWORCA, https://pnworca.org for more information on regional races.
Do you race dragon boats as well?
On occasion Mountain Home will race dragon boat, but this race style is not our focus; we do not own a dragon boat nor do we regularly practice dragon boat paddling. Sometimes, Mountain Home will field a dragon boat team in the local Portland races, including Rose Festival or the Portland Dragon Boat Festival.
What kind of coaching can I expect if I'm a beginner/experienced paddler?
Coaching is an important tradition of the Mountain Home Canoe Club. We are very fortunate to have excellent Coaches. Members are expected to understand and respect the roles and responsibilities of the Coaches. Every attempt will be made to give all members equal time and coaching.
Do the men and women practice separately? Or are there mixed practices?
Men and women attend the same practices, but do not always paddle together in the same boats. During race training, race teams may practice as crews. At other times, coaches may choose to balance crews so that boats can stay close together or compete during practice.
What if I can't swim?
For Mountain Home, safety is our top priority on the water. During every practice, we make every effort to be safe on the water, but accidents do occur. You should feel comfortable enough in the water that if the canoe capsizes (“huli”), you can assist in righting the canoe and can climb back in the boat. If you cannot swim, it's essential to wear a life vest (PFD) at all times while paddling. We recommend learning basic swimming skills beforehand. Please prioritize water safety by learning to tread water efficiently before joining us, and always wear a life vest during practice or race events.
How are teams chosen for races?
Coaches seat race teams, basing their decisions in large part on the results of bench drills, commitment to the race season ahead and end of the year goals, dedication to practice, time trials, blending, performance, fitness and technique.
Do you get any funding/sponsorship for races?
Yes. We have a Fundraising Committee chaired by the Vice-President of the Board that recruits sponsors, organizes fundraising events, and maintains relationships with the community at large.
When can I use an OC1 or OC2?
After you become a member and complete a 'huli' drill (recovering from a capsized boat, you may reserve a small boat on the website calendar for use anytime except during regularly scheduled club practices. Members are strongly encouraged to paddle with at least one other member and to follow established safety guidelines while on the water. You should record on the marker board (at the boat house) what time you leave the dock and which direction you are headed; up or down river.
Can I take a club OC1 to a race?
Yes. When you want to reserve a club canoe for a race, contact the Equipment Manager at least one week before the event to be placed on the reservation list.
How do I transport an OC1 to a race?
When planning to transport a Club OC1 or OC2, contact the Equipment Manager for approval. A member wishing to transport a canoe must have a vehicle with roof racks that meet specific criteria. The Equipment Manager will inspect your vehicle and determine whether or not it meets criteria for safe transportation.
What do I do if I want to bring a guest paddling?
We encourage our members to invite guests to join our practices. Please contact the New Paddler Contact to determine availability for practice. More information is available on the Guest Paddler Information Page.