While guests enjoy the parks day in and day out, the cast members are working hard to keep the magic alive and help the guests enjoy their visit, they do get to have fun! Each year a select few cast members are able to participate in the Canoe Races Of the World. Around the world, at five of the Disney Parks, hundreds of cast members make up 80 teams take part in the action.
Photo Credit: Disney
The five parks that participate in the tradition are: Walt Disney World; Disneyland Park; Tokyo Disneyland; Disneyland Paris; and Hong Kong Disneyland. The tradition began in 1963, and is currently the longest running cast tradition, which started at Disneyland Park. There is one cast member, Michael Cooper, that has taken part in canoe races for over 40 years and currently holds the record number of championships. Michael mentions in his interview that “constant communication with your team to continue along the river path” is key. By day, Michael Cooper is a manager, but for the races he serves as the rear steerer.
Michael also enjoys sharing tips and tricks to new team members. This year he assisted a lifeguard at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort, learning the tricks of the trade during her first year in the C.R.O.W. Amanda Curry grew up on a river in the state of Maryland where she canoe and kayak frequently.
Being a cast member isn’t just all work and no play. In addition to the C.R.O.W they also get to preview new attractions before officially opening, take their chance at trivia games, and enjoy yoga and 5K’s inside the parks.
With this being the 50th year of the tradition for the Canoe Race Of the World, it is fascinating to learn about something so special happening in the parks before the guests arrive. Have you heard about this tradition prior to now? Even at Marvelous Mouse Travels we learn something new every day! Maybe on your next adventure to the parks, ask around to find someone on one of the teams! Reach out to Marvelous Mouse Travels to start planning your next trip.
