WASHBURN — New this year to the annual Aroostook River Fun Run canoe and kayak race, slated for Saturday, May 18 is a learn-to-paddle clinic sponsored by the Maine Winter Sports Center.
The race day’s activities will begin with registration at Washburn’s Thomas Brewer Park starting at 8 a.m. with the competition set for 10 a.m. and ending 55 to 90 minutes later at the Fish and Game Club in Presque Isle with lunch and awards. A courtesy shuttle service will bring racers back to Washburn to retrieve their vehicles.
In addition to the Fun Run, a hands-on instructional clinic will be offered at the Washburn boat landing focusing on an introduction to canoeing and kayaking. This will be the perfect way for beginners or those looking for a refresher to start the paddling season.
Equipment and instruction will be provided by Mike Smith of Healthy Hometowns, the community development division of the Maine Winter Sports Center. The clinic will begin at 10:30 a.m. and last approximately one hour. Cost is $10. Participants can register that morning, and should come dressed appropriately. All necessary equipment will be provided.
Rotary Club members from Washburn and Presque Isle managing the finish line of the race will declare the winners in a variety of categories who will be awarded miniature wooden paddle trophies for their efforts. Prizes, including an Old Town kayak, donated by the clubs and other sponsors will be randomly awarded to event participants. After the award ceremony, paddlers will be offered a barbecue lunch, sponsored by TAMC.
The entry fee is $15 for adults, $12 for senior citizens and $10 for youth. The first 75 entrants will receive a Fun Run T-shirt.
For more information on the race or to register, contact Mark Putnam at 551-9573 (editor@nepublish.com) or download a registration form directly from the PI Rotary website www.pirotaryclub.org or Aroostook Outdoors at www.goaroostookoutdoors.com and bring it to the race.
