With the annual Mattawa River Canoe Race coming up, paddlers are sharing some of their secrets later this month in North Bay on what it’s like to canoe more than 60 kilometres. The North Bay to Mattawa 64 kilometre long race is July 29th. However on May 18th, three long-time racers are going to talk about what it’s like to prepare for the event. The session is at the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority complex and begins at 6:00pm.
The long-time participants will provide information to people thinking about taking part in the annual event. They are Mark Swain who has taken part in nine races, Carol Zimbalatti, a participant in six races and Susan Weiskopf with eight races under her belt. Paula Loranger, the community relations coordinator, says depending on water conditions, the portages in the race can be challenging. She adds some of the paddlers have been taking part in the annual event for more than a quarter century and includes participants who are both recreational paddlers as well as pros. Loranger adds that the Mattawa River Canoe Race is one of the most popular events on the Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racing Association roster. Paddlers leave for Mattawa from Olmsted Beach on Trout Lake. For more information go to www.mattawarivercanoerace.ca
