UMF Mainely Outdoors sponsoring Annual Canoe and Kayak Race May 3

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UMF community health education senior Colleen Ward enjoys a day of kayaking on the Sandy River with UMF’s Mainely Outdoors. (UMF photo)
UMF community health education senior Colleen Ward enjoys a day of kayaking on the Sandy River with UMF’s Mainely Outdoors. (UMF photo)

FARMINGTON –  The University of Maine at Farmington Fitness and Recreation Center is kicking off spring with the 5th annual Canoe/Kayak Race and Fun Paddle on Sunday, May 3, on the Sandy River. Sponsored by the FRC “Mainely Outdoors” outdoor recreation program, the event provides a great opportunity for members of the public to enjoy the healthy outdoor activities that western Maine has to offer.

The Canoe/Kayak Race and Fun Paddle features an approximate 10-mile paddle and will start at 1 p.m., in Strong and end in Fairbanks. The put-in location is at the Strong American Legion at the intersection of Route 4 and 145 and the take-out location is at the Little League ball field on Route 4. There will be a shuttle service to bring paddlers back to their vehicles.

“The Sandy River’s mix of flat areas with rips, eddies and pitches makes for a fun and lively paddle,” said Jim Toner, director of UMF Fitness and Recreation Center. “This has become a great spring tradition for many people who enjoy the Maine outdoors and have been anxiously waiting for winter to lose its grip.”

Participants 13 and older of all ability levels are welcome to compete in the timed race or to paddle for fun. Paddlers must provide their own canoe or kayak, paddles, personal floatation devices and other related equipment.

According to the Whitewater Classification System, this section of the Sandy River is identified as Class I—moving water with small disturbances on the surface and a few small waves, to Class II—easy rapids with smaller waves and clear channels that are obvious and where occasional maneuvering may be required.

This year the UMF race is included in the Maine Canoe and Kayak Racing organization’s circuit.

Registration fees are $10 person and $5 for students. Registration forms can be completed by visiting the UMF Fitness and Recreation Center or on site the day of the race from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Racing categories for participants include high school students; college students; men/women, ages 18-49; century, ages over 50; and family. Children ages 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

For race rules, registration form or more information, visit the UMF Fitness and Recreation website at http://frc.umf.maine.edu/, or call at 778-7495.

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