SDG COUNTIES, Ontario - The Raisin Region Conservation Authority’s (RRCA) 53rd annual Raisin River Canoe Race set a new record this year, with an unprecedented 505 paddlers in 321 boats registered. The sold-out event took place on April 11.
The race began at 10:30 a.m., as paddlers in canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards departed from St. Andrews West in the Township of South Stormont and made their way along the nearly 30-kilometre course on the Raisin River, finishing in Williamstown in the Township of South Glengarry.
“We are thrilled to see so many people participating in the Race today,” said RRCA Board of Directors Chair, Jacques Massie, while addressing paddlers prior to the race’s start. “Welcome to all the folks from the area and welcome also to the many visitors. It’s a pleasure to welcome you to our region.”
Flows from the Raisin River measured in the early morning on race day showed a moderate 350 cubic feet per second (ft³/s) – close to last year’s flows of 380 ft³/s. Over the years, the race has seen flow rates ranging from 71 ft³/s) in 2012 to 2,649 ft³/s in 2017.
“It’s incredible to see the race continue to grow in popularity,” said RRCA Race Coordinator Lissa Deslandes. “The Raisin River Canoe Race is an annual tradition for both residents and visitors to the region. As RRCA’s largest annual event, it truly celebrates our area’s watershed. We’re very grateful for the ongoing support from local organizations, sponsors, partners, as well as our safety committee and volunteers who have helped make this race possible for decades.”
The fastest time down the Raisin River – 2 hours and 27 minutes – was claimed by Robert Ross and Jeff Brainard in a double kayak. Full interim results are available at rrca.on.ca/Results.