Insp. Brent Secondiak has a unique commute to work

But it’s worth it.

He has the best view of the sunrise on the South Saskatchewan River.

“And you see the banks on the east side of the city so it’s amazing, it’s beautiful,” he said.

The morning hours on the water are calm and peaceful.

Secondiak often has the river to himself, besides the wildlife he sees like deer, beavers, pelicans, and people fishing at times.

There are two reasons why he kayaks. One is for physical fitness which is a big part of his life.

Medicine Hat Police encourage members to stay fit to help reduce stress and to prolong their careers.

“It’s a great way to get some exercise coming to work. A lot of people walk or ride your bike as I do frequently, but taking a kayak is a whole different experience,” Secondiak said.

It’s a fun journey on the water and it’s also beneficial for mental health. Secondiak says you can think about what you have to do that day and decompress.

The second reason he likes to get up early to kayak is to see the city from a different perspective.

“I love it when you’re coming down the river and you see the bridges from underneath and the train bridge. I don’t know how old it is but it looks to be over 100 years old. I mean all the old stone and you can see everyone’s yards from the back and it’s just very calm and peaceful,” he added.

Secondiak has been kayaking for seven years.

His first time was at the pond by Medicine Hat College with his wife and they’ve been hooked ever since.

After a morning on the water, he needs a place to store his kayak before starting his workday. So he has a special VIP parking spot.

“I always also try to torment the chief just a little bit. I always put it in his (parking) stall and then Chief McGrogan and now Chief Worden usually grumble about it but it’s all fun and part of our teamwork and leadership building at the service.”

After a day’s work, Secondiak makes the trek home.

He has to paddle against the current which is challenging and takes 2-3 times longer.

Secondiak says kayaking is a great way to travel. He encourages everyone to try it out with the proper gear and to go with a partner if you can.

And before hitting the water, he plans ahead by looking at the river flow rate to see the conditions.

“I love kayaking, I love my job but bringing that kayak and getting that half an hour to an hour of peacefulness before and after work, there’s nothing like it,” Secondiak added.

by Chantal Wagner

Insp. Brent Secondiak has a unique commute to work

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