My first time with RICA was March 9, 1991.

I entered the White Water Championship 6 mile long race in Rhode Island on the Branch River.
A paddling friend and I entered the canoe fiberglass recreational class. 
We came in 5th place out of 11 in our class. 1:14:11.
First place time was 1:02:05.
 The club had a monthly news letter, that posted meetings, paddles, and  events, plus it was "local". No more reading Canoe magazine and dreaming about paddling areas out west and north I would never get to. 
 Been a member ever since.
Thanks all
Earl and Pat MacRae