A combination of weather and gathering-restriction hurdles have kept a decades-old river race beached for four years, conservation authority officials say.
“The last two obviously because of COVID, but the years prior to that, the water levels were too high,” said St. Clair River Conservation Authority spokesperson Donna Blue.
So, in a bid to increase the likelihood of good conditions, the 49th year of the Sydenham River Canoe and Kayak Race has been moved to May 1 from it’s typical date in April, she said.
“In the past they’ve done it in snow and rain and everything,” she said.
“So I think everyone was really supportive of having us push it back.”
The Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racers Association-recognized event that typically draws 60 to 100 paddlers and raises a few thousand dollars for conservation education programs features eleven classes and three race lengths, Blue said.
“It’s a nice event for anyone of any paddling experience,” she said.
Participants need to wear approved personal flotation devices of life jackets, and need their own canoe or kayak equipped with a whistle, bailer and 50 feet of rope, conservation authority officials said in a news release.
Mosside Line, just west of County Road 79 is the starting line, and there’s a 10-11 am shuttle service between there and the finish at the Shetland Conservation Area during prep time.
Races start at 11:20 am
Registration costs $11.90 at scrca.on.ca/events and closes at noon, April 28, Blue said.
To be replaced St. Clair Challenge last summer that encouraged paddlers, hikers, bikers, and runners to complete distance challenges and collect pledges didn’t attract many participants or raise as much money as hoped, Blue said.
The number of participants and dollars raised wasn’t immediately available.
The conservation authority will see how this year’s May race goes before considering making the later event date permanent, Blue said.
“I think it’s an event people really enjoy,” she said about why the conservation authority offers the river race, noting the marathon racing association is useful for people who are members.
“But also just an opportunity to get on the river – experience it, enjoy it,” Blue said.