Over 130 paddlers from six provinces have already signed up for the 41st Annual Mattawa River Canoe Race. The event takes place on July 29th, and is presented by the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority. People can still register for the 13 kilometre portion of the race, but registrations for the 64 kilometre leg of the race have now closed with a record number of 70 boats signed up. Racers will trace the historic route of the Voyageurs, making their way through lakes, rivers, and fast moving water from North Bay to Mattawa Island Conservation Area, passing through Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.
NBMCA Community Relations Coordinator Paula Loranger says they’ve had paddlers of all ages participate in the race. Loranger says from six year olds in the 13km race to 78 year olds taking part in the 64km race, with some participating for over 25 years. She says whether it’s paddling 64 or 13 km in a canoe, kayak, stand up paddle board or voyageur canoe the race has something for everyone.
Family and youth participants can still register until July 28th or at 11:30am at the race registration tent in Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park on July 29th. The 13 km race starts at noon. Officials also invite members of the public to join in the excitement during a pre-race public hike on Friday, July 28th at 9:30am at Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area. A bus will be available from North Bay at 8:15am from New Ontario Brewery on Cassells Street.
