The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) and St. Clair Region Conservation Foundation (SCRCF) have announced they will hold the Sydenham River Canoe and Kayak Race on Sunday, April 28, 2024.
The event aims to raise funds to support conservation education programs within the St. Clair Region watershed in addition to highlighting the unique natural features and recreational opportunities provided by the Sydenham River.
Recognized by the Ontario Marathon Canoe Kayak Racing Association, the race features eleven classes and three different race lengths to appeal to both competitive and recreational paddlers.
Seven-kilometre race classes include Recreation, Lazy River, VIP, Touring (over 50 years of age), and Short Kayak.
Twelve-kilometre race classes include Rec Tandem Men, Rec Tandem Mixed, and Long Rec Kayak.
The 16-kilometre race classes are Pro C2 Men, Pro C2 Mixed, and Fast Kayak. Participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship for their efforts that will be used to support conservation education programs provided by the SCRCA.
Trophies will be presented to the winners of each race and the top overall fundraiser.
Both online and in-person registration is being offered for the 2024 event.
Online registration will close on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while in-person registration will occur the morning of the race between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. (cash-only).
The cost to participate in $10 per person. Refreshments will also be available for purchase at the start and finish lines (cash-only).
The starting line is located on Mosside Line just west of Country Road 79. A shuttle service will be available beginning at 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. between the start and finish line.
All classes and race lengths end at the Shetland Conservation Area located on Lambton County Road 2.
Participants are required to provide their own canoe or kayak equipped with a whistle, bailer, and 50 feet of rope.
Approved Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) or life jackets must be worn by each paddler.
In the event of poor weather, please tune into local radio stations, call (519) 384-0735, or look for updates on the SCRCA social media pages.
New for the 2024 race is an alternative rain date scheduled for the following Sunday (May 5, 2024).
For more information regarding the canoe race and conservation education programs offered by the SCRCA, visit www.scrca.on.ca or contact Melissa Levi, Race Coordinator at (519) 384-0735 or at mlevi@scrca.on.ca, or Donna Blue, Manager of Communications at (519) 245-3710 or dblue@scrca.on.ca.
