Jeffrey DeSantis and Bill Hearn recently purchased Walden Kayaks from Hardigg Industries. DeSantis and Hearn are devoted to the mission of Walden Kayaks: helping people discover the pleasures of kayaking while preserving the outdoors for future generations. Production is continuing at the Walden Kayak manufacturing facility in Ayer, Massachusetts.
Jeffrey DeSantis, new President of Walden Kayaks, has extensive experience building technical businesses while directing and organizing revenue efficiency.
Bill Hearn, new Director of Sales and Marketing at Walden Kayaks, has design and production experience including kayak and paddle manufacturing. Hearn started paddling as a youngster with his family, and competed internationally on the US Whitewater Team for ten years. Hearn siblings Cathy and David are whitewater slalom World Champions and Olympians.
“We had been looking for a company that our family could be involved with and Walden Kayaks is the perfect match,” said DeSantis. “Walden's strong tradition of building affordable recreational kayaks will prove a grand adventure for our family. We see tremendous opportunity in Walden, making kayaks while conserving natural resources, and continuing to promote paddle sports. Today, it is important to create opportunities for peaceful reflection with nature,” said DeSantis, “and Walden Pond's Henry David Thoreau reflected, 'He enjoys true leisure who has time to improve his soul's estate.'”
“Canoe and kayak paddling is a lifetime, family sport,” said Hearn. “Walden Kayaks offers the opportunity to share the joys of paddling with others, and contribute my expertise to Walden's product development,” Hearn stated. “We will enhance our dealer relationships, as our sales network is essential to building a strong Walden Kayak family.”
