It is with profound sadness that Canoe Kayak Canada acknowledges the passing of Edward Urquhart, Para Kayak paddler from Pickering Rouge Canoe Club.

Edward was a leader in the Para paddling community, competing for Canada at the 2018 Pan American Championship in Dartmouth. He was also a key member of the strong Canoe Kayak Ontario team and his club. This past March, he also competed at the Olympic and Paralympic Team Trials in Burnaby, British Columbia. Outside of paddling, Edward was a Canadian Para Powerlifting record holder and an accomplished long-drive and para golf athlete.

Anyone who spent time as a teammate, competitor or simply crossed paths with Eddie was inspired by his enthusiasm, determination and the joy he took in, and brought to  our sport. Canoe Kayak Canada expresses its very deepest condolences to Edwards’ wife, Andrea, and his two young sons, Eric and Joshua. We also share our condolences with the Pickering Rouge Canoe Club, Canoe Kayak Ontario, Edwards teammates and friends.

“I first met Eddie in Toronto at the 2017 Olympic/Paralympic search. He was a strong and charismatic guy that seemed just as eager to be involved in sport as I was,” said National team Para paddler, Mike Trauner.  “Like myself, Eddie very much included his family, Andrea and his two boys, Eric and Joshua as a part of his Paralympic journey which instantly made a connection between us and strongly believed in leading by example and treating all teammates as family. We have lost more than just a paddler, we have lost our brother and I hope that all CKC members remember Eddie as the man with the iron will and exceptional passion for life. We love you Eddie, may you rest in eternal peace.”

Canoe Kayak Canada’s National teams will be observing a moment of silence in remembrance of Edward, and his amazing generosity of spirit and enthusiasm for our sport, which we will endeavour to continue in his memory.