Q&A with Kevin Tobin
Bronze Medalist, 2025 World Marathon Championships
Ottawa River Canoe Club | PaddleAll/Special Olympic Athlete
In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month this April, we’re proud to spotlight Kevin Tobin, an inspiring young athlete whose determination and passion continue to break barriers in paddling.
How long have you been paddling, Kevin?
I’ve been paddling competitively for the past four years. I started in the recreation program at the Ottawa River Canoe Club (ORCC).
What do you love most about paddling?
I love being out in the wild, paddling on the water, seeing wildlife like deer, frogs, otters, and even a bald eagle.
I also love getting stronger and more fit. This winter, I skied over 20 km as part of my training. My first time doing off-season training like that and I know it’s helping my endurance.
Training with the Competition Group at ORCC means a lot to me. I feel included, like I truly fit in. They believe in me, and that motivates me to keep pushing.
I enjoy working hard, sweating, and getting stronger every day. My arms, legs, and hands are all improving. And I’ve met some amazing people through paddling, like athletes from Spain and France at Worlds, and Team Canada’s Conrad Hoogerboord, who even shared photos of me from the Championships.
How do you feel about your 2025 season?
I won three gold and one silver medal at the National Championships in Regina, and a bronze medal at the World Marathon Championships in Hungary.
I improved all of my personal best times and learned how to wash ride, which I’m excited to keep working on this season.
What has motivated or inspired you to become a better paddler?
Back in 2022, I raced at the World Championships in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. There was a German paddler, Sebastien. He was so fast and strong. I was motivated to beat him one day!
What are your goals for the 2026 season?
I’ve trained a lot this winter, so I know I’ll be stronger. I want to achieve a new personal best time in my kayak and aim for first place at the World Marathon Championships.
I’m excited for the challenge and hope to race Sebastien again and get closer to him this time.
I’ll keep training with the Competition Development Group at ORCC. They push me to go faster and always believe in me. I just want to keep improving and paddle better.
Final thoughts from Kevin:
“Smaller doesn’t make you weak, it makes you stronger.”
Thank you, Kevin, for sharing your journey and inspiring our community. From divisional to international competition, your dedication, resilience, and love for the sport embody what paddling is all about. We wish you continued success in the 2026 season.
Thank you to LA Schmidt for conducting the interview!