There’s nothing like taking a boat for a spin around an indoor man-made lake in the middle of winter to get people in the mood for summer. And that’s just what the organizers of the Toronto International Boat Show wanted.
“The lake is a real hub of activity at the show and our gem,” show manager Cynthia Hare said. Workers spent four days transforming a hockey rink into an indoor lake holding one million gallons of frigid water from Lake Ontario. “It takes a lot of people and hours and planning, but it’s worth it,” Hare said.
The 51st annual boat show opened at the Direct Energy Centre and Ricoh Coliseum on Saturday and runs until January 18. Last year, more than 91,000 people attended the boat show; organizers expect the same attendance figures for this year.
To kick off the 10-day show, about 1,500 industry V.I.P.s got a crowd-free sneak peak during the 10th annual Charity Special Preview Night on Friday. The event, which has raised more than $500,000 for children's charities since its inception, is a unique way to thank the show’s sponsors, Hare said.
New to the show this year is Duma, the water-skiing and boat-driving Jack Russell terrier, who thrilled the crowd and even took some time after to let her fans pet her and take pictures. Throughout the week, wakeboarders and wakeskaters are performing stunts on the lake, and show-goers are able to get their feet wet in sailboats, paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks.
Fish TV personality Ron James is on hand, running seminars on luring fish while demonstrating his technique for anglers sitting around the Great Canadian Fish Tank. Nearby, kids—and some eager adults—can try out their techniques at the mini trout pond.
In the main hall, some 550 marine exhibitors are showcasing a variety of new products, ranging from 2009 boat models to the latest in green technology and accessories.
And for those looking for expert information on everything from knot tying to cruising, hourly seminars are held in the presentation theatre.
