Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race 2009

"Ladies and gentlemen, start your paddles!"

Not sure if that's the official call to order, but that's the idea at the 48th Annual Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race presented by the Fox Valley Park District on Sunday, June 7, from 9:00 am to noon. The race is open to paddlers of all ages and abilities and features 10 canoe divisions and 6 kayak divisions.

Paddlers can choose to participate in the 10-mile race which leaves from Mount St. Marys Park in St. Charles, or the 6-mile race starting at the VFW in Batavia. Either way you will end up at McCullough Park in Aurora where there will be a post-race party where paddlers, friends, and family can enjoy food, beverages, and an award ceremony.

Q. "But I don't have a canoe!"
A. Not to worry, there is a boatload of information regarding canoe rental, registration, rules, etc. on the Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race website.

Q. "But how am I supposed to get home after I float 10 miles down the incredibly scenic Fox River?"
A. Great question! A free shuttle service will be provided. So here's what you'll do: Drop off your boat at the starting line (either St. Charles or Batavia); drive down and park your car in Aurora, hop on the shuttle to your start, then paddle your little heart out back to your vehicle.

Can you canoe? We'll find out next Sunday. Keep the dry side up!


Canoe race now lets paddlers pick distance (Beacon News)