LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk | Profile Twenty Years of Paddle Sport By: Kathleen Harrison also has free on-water demos taught by experts in the field. For those who want to spend more time learning skills, there are various on-water classes. These classes can accommodate only limited enrollment. Participants are required to pre-register and pay a modest fee. C ongratulations from LOCALadk to John Nemjo and his dedicated staff at Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company (MOSC). This summer they will celebrate 20 years of operation. It was 1993 when John opened his first kayak store in an abandoned pizza shop in Inlet, NY. Twenty years later he proudly boasts that he owns N.Y. state's largest canoe and kayak shop. Today, MOSC comprises three individual specialty shops in Old Forge and two more in Saratoga, one of which will be a new kayak shop conveniently located on Fish Creek. Since the beginning, MOSC has been committed to educating and outfitting customers so that they can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Its ultimate goal is to make everyone's adventures in the wilderness a safe and fun experience. MOSC is also active in the protection of the environment both within and beyond the Adirondack Park, helping to preserve the natural beauty of the outdoors for generations to come. The kayak shop is a one-stop shop for canoes, kayaks, and the newly popular SUP boards. Its located on Route 28 in Old Forge and is hard to miss; their amazing selection of both white water and flat water canoes and kayaks creates an explosion of bright colors. As you enter the shop or begin to wander into the boat yard, you will quickly be met by one of MOSC's experienced staffers who, when not working, can usually be found out paddling the Adirondacks or the endless waterways beyond. Whether you are an experienced boater or are new to the sport, the MOSC staff will take the time to work with you. They will not only answer questions, but will give you an education on how to pick the right boat according to your needs. Boat choice is based on the kind of paddling you are most interested in; there are many boats, and one for every type of boater. The shop in Old Forge is fortunate to be situated along the banks of the Moose River, which, at that location, is flat and serene. It's the perfect setting to test-paddle a few boats and make an informed decision about which one is right for you. A great time of year to visit MOSC is in mid-May, when they sponsor the Adirondack Paddlefest. This year will mark the 15th annual show, at which they have the largest on water canoe and kayak sale in the country. The show features more than 75 leading manufacturers, with over 1,000 canoes and kayaks to chose from. Paddlefest If you are a paddler or want to become one, then the Adirondack Paddlefest held in Old Forge, N.Y. on May 17, 18, and 19 is the place to be. The festival takes place along the shores of the Old Forge pond and the town swimming beach. Come get your feet wet and check out the latest in canoe and kayak design. Take a test paddle, learn what paddle is best suited for you, watch a demo, or take a class and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow paddlers. u Adirondack Paddlefest 2013 Our 15th Anniversary! May 17-19, Old Forge, NY America's Largest On-Water Canoe, Kayak and Stand-Up-Paddleboard Sale Bic SUP • Current Designs • Dagger Hurricane • Liquidlogic • Mad River Native Watercraft • QCC Kayaks Perception • Swift • We-no-nah Wilderness Systems • Wave Sport Over 1000 Canoes, Kayaks & SUPs on Sale! Presented by New York's Largest Canoe & Kayak Dealer! Rt. 28, Old Forge, NY www.AdirondackPaddlefest.com (315) 369-6672 LOCALadk Magazine Spring 2013 49

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