News Article

Instructor practices what he preaches


10/9/2003 3:52:45 PM


Paul Barron begins the first leg of his trip from CNA’s Bay St. George campus.


Barron takes a breather at Terra Nova National Park in the east coast of the island during his drive from Stephenville to St. John’s.

October 9, 2003 - Paul Barron, Small Equipment Repair instructor at College of the North Atlantic’s Bay St. George campus, doesn’t only bring his expertise to the classroom, he demonstrates it in his everyday life.

This past summer, Barron decided to make a trip from Stephenville to St. John’s. One wouldn’t raise an eyebrow at this, as many people have driven across the Island. But Barron’s trip had a unique twist. He didn’t drive a car. He didn’t even use the roadways. He drove a Yamaha WR400 dirt bike from Stephenville to the capital city (some 800 km each way), using old railway beds as his guide.

Barren says he’s been riding motorbikes since he was 11, but he’s only taken on this particular challenge once before. He made his first cross-province excursion two years ago, with success.

“I wanted to do it for years but couldn’t get anyone to go,” he admits. “But if no one will go with you, you must do it by yourself.”

And that’s just what he did. The first successful trip encouraged him to do it again this past summer. Barron didn’t depart hastily though; he was well prepared. He even did a practice run six weeks prior to his departure where he traveled the 332 km to Port aux Basques and back.

He planned other important aspect of the trip far in advance, making such preparations as mailing clothing and belongings to St. John’s beforehand.

“When you’re on the motorcycle, you can’t carry a lot.”

After a full day of riding, Barron spent a night in Gander to split up the lengthy trip. The next day he continued on to St. John’s where he visited with his father.

Barron thinks it’s great way to travel. Not only does this off-the-beaten-path route make for a relaxing and enjoyable ride, but the Island’s beautiful scenery and wildlife made the effort worthwhile.

“The country is awesome,” marvels Barron. “There is a lot out there to be seen.”

Barron’s holidays gave him the opportunity to soak up the splendor of the province, but fall means it’s time to head back to the classroom where he can pass along his knowledge and experience to students.

“My students work on bikes, snowmobiles, ATVs, anything with a small engine,” says Barron, “they like being hands-on with the machines.”

Most importantly, he shows his class the importance of doing what you love.

“I enjoy working on my bike,” says Barron. “I enjoy recreational vehicles and I like keeping my equipment in tip-top shape. That is how I make my living.”

For more information on the Small Equipment Repair program visit CNA’s website: www.cna.nl.ca or call the Bay St. George campus at (709) 643-7730.

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