FARMINGTON — The University of Maine at Farmington Fitness and Recreation Center is holding their annual Canoe/Kayak Race and Fun Paddle on Sunday, May 4, on the Sandy River. This fourth annual river paddle event is sponsored by the UMF fitness center’s Mainely Outdoors outdoor recreation program to promote community-wide fitness and outdoor fun.
The 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.
Participants 12 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.
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 12-14 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.
