12-year-old Chilliwack paddler raises funds to take part in world championships

CHILLIWACK — A local youth athlete is looking to row her way back onto the world stage with some help from the community.

Chilliwack-area resident Katiyana Williams has been racing sprint and outrigger canoes as part of her Stó:lō and Shíshálh Indigenous heritage since she was born – earning her the skill and background to take part in this year’s World Sprint Championships in Singapore from August 17 to 29.

“Canoeing is in our blood,” said her father, Jonny Williams, who also started racing as a child. “I put her in my canoe when she was just a baby, and she’s 12 years old now, and it’s going to be her second year representing Team USA.”

The young paddler previously competed with Team USA in Bora Bora last year and has now been selected again to compete in the V1 and V6 U16 categories, as well as the V6 U19 category.

“This is dedication, right? To be 12 years old and put in the passion that she has for canoeing, and make a team at the world level. She trains hard.”

Jonny trains with her and her 10-year-old sister at the Sqwa Community Centre at the end of Wellington Ave, and supports them by attending as many events as he can.

“My daughters encouraged me to start trying even harder to get back into our own cultural canoes, so I help coach and help where I can in our family,” he added.

But taking on world championships will be a costly feat.

As a result, the local artist is organizing a battery recycling drive to help cover her travel expenses, including flights, lodging, uniforms and more.

Residents who live between Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Hope and have dead car, truck, lawnmower or tractor batteries are asked to contact batteries4kat@gmail.com to arrange pickup, or send donations directly to the email address if preferred.