The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is pleased to announce it will be holding its 50th anniversary Raisin River Canoe Race on Saturday, April 15.
One of the longest canoe races in eastern Ontario, the Raisin River Canoe Race attracts hundreds of participants, who paddle through a 30-kilometre racecourse from St. Andrews West in South Stormont to Williamstown in South Glengarry while being cheered on by enthusiastic shoreline supporters.
The first Raisin River Canoe Race was held in 1973. Since then, the annual RRCA event has become an immensely popular rite of spring for both residents and visitors to the area.
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating the Canoe Race’s 50th anniversary this year,” says RRCA Canoe Race Coordinator, Lissa Deslandes. “Thanks to the support from many local organizations and sponsors, as well as the Race Safety Committee, RRCA has been able to coordinate safe and successful races throughout the last five decades.”
The Canoe Race is always held during the spring melt, when water levels on the Raisin River are high and flows are favourable. A notable change this year is that the race will be taking place on a Saturday, instead of the usual Sunday.
“Contestants get a front-row seat to the beauty of the Raisin River and surrounding landscape, as the river’s racecourse meanders through agricultural lands, villages, rapids, and forests,” says Deslandes.
For paddlers looking to participate in this year’s race, a pre-registration link can be found on the RRCA’s website at rrca.on.ca. The public is encouraged to check the RRCA’s social media channels and website for upcoming event details and announcements. Businesses and organizations looking to sponsor this year’s Canoe Race can contact Lissa Deslandes at (613) 938-3611 ext. 237 or Lissa.Deslandes@rrca.on.ca. For more information visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.