About Us

Directors

Our directors, are a crazy group but knowledgeable in this wonderful outdoor sport. Each member comes from a different background and knowledge of paddling and are a great asset to the group so check out each members bio to find out more about them.

Check back in with this section often. It's currently under construction but as time goes on you'll learn more here about our various directors and members. Stay tuned...

Director: David Fisher

Our director, David Fisher is an avid paddler who begins his second year as a director of the Olympic Kayak Club. He is committed to supporting the water trails in the Puget Sound area along with the success of the OKC.

Director (Trips/Planning): Bob McBride

Bob was born in Montana where he graduated with a Bachelors of Science from Montana State University with a degree in Civil Engineering. Later he went on to obtain a Masters in Water Resources from University of Colorado. Bob put his education to work serving in the US Navy for 25 years in the Civil Engineer Corps. He married his lovely wife Shirley in 1965 and they went on to have 2 children. Bob enjoys building furniture, turning bowls and pens, hiking, hunting, gardening and of course paddling.

Director (Events): Ben Sabin

I have been messing about in boats since I was old enough to ride my bike to my local library and bring home anything related to kayaking, canoeing, sailing, knot tying, and other outdoor subjects. My first vessel that I was prould to own, was a wooden 16ft kayak that my father designed, and we built together in junior high. Before I could drive, I transported it from my home in Kingston, Wa down to the marina on a cart I made from bicycle parts, where I would sail or paddle away on many adventures. My wife and I have owned many boats, including ski, cruising, and sail, but none for as long as the canoe we bought soon after marriage 20 years ago, and still use. I've worked as a professional captain for a number of years and belong to several boating organizations. Sea kayaking has become my latest passion, as I have logged several hundred miles since buying a new boat in 2009. Hope to see you on the water!
Ben Sabin

Director (Events): Violette Fitzgerald

Violette Fitzgerald is a self employed exporter of agriculture products from the Pacific Northwest. She became a member of the OKC after completing the first Paddle Kitsap in 2008. Since then she has completed the Puget Sound Challenge and the Paddle Kitsap 2009. She says, “I have lived in the Puget Sound for over 30 years and the adventures I have experienced on the water are the best!” The Olympic Kayak Club is a fun group of people to share a passion for the outdoors, the water and active living. Its the best kind of Club to be involved with.

Director (Communications): Dennis Malcom

I have been kayaking for just over a year. I got interested in paddling on a tour of Orcas Island I took as a wedding anniversary gift. I have been messing around in boats since college where a rowed for about 3 years. It is one of those things that stick in your blood. I really got serious about paddling after finding out about Paddle Kitsap. I participated in the event and was hooked. Since then I’ve joined the club and paddle in the Deception Pass Dash. I will be participating in The Puget Sound Challenge and Paddle Kitsap this year and hope to begin building my first kayak.

Director (Communications): Shawn Roots

Yes, That's me...the guy in yellow. My paddling bio really starts with my son Cameron (14). He started paddling when he was 7 and has since dragged our entire family into it. I've been paddling about 3 years now and I can't image life without it. It's really been a blessing in so many ways. What a great family activity. My goal is to promote paddling and encourage other families to follow in our steps. The family that paddles together stays together.