32nd Mattawa River canoe race set to go

North Bay – Mattawa Conservation Authority
News Release

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The North Bay – Mattawa Conservation Authority is pleased to announce the 32nd Annual Mattawa River Canoe Race, presented by the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority, taking place Saturday, July 26, 2008. Paddlers from across North America will gather at North Bay’s Olmsted Beach to take part in the longest canoe race in Ontario. The race traces the historic route of the voyageurs through lakes, rivers, fast water and several portages to Mattawa Island located 64 kilometers away. While the race has traditionally been reserved for canoeists, two new kayaking categories have been added to the race for 2008 in recognition of the growing interest in the sport.

Both canoe and kayak paddlers can pre-register or register the day of the event starting at 6:30 am at Olmstead Beach. Categories range from competitive to recreational. For younger canoeing enthusiasts who wish to take part in the event, the NBMCA’s Mattawa River Canoe Race also features a Family Category. This category allows participation by two related individuals who are eager to paddle the race to begin at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park and continue 13 kilometers to Mattawa Island. The entire race concludes with an awards banquet at the Mattawa Community Centre, with prizes awarded in each category.

“With a variety of skill sets from competitive to recreational, the canoe race has something for everyone, including kayakers,” explains Brian Tayler, General Manager of the North Bay – Mattawa Conservation Authority. “This year we also really want to encourage more families to participate in the event. At 13 km long, it is a perfect opportunity for younger paddlers to participate in the race.”

The public is invited to watch the start of the race which begins at Olmsted Beach at 7:30 am or cheer on the canoeists at various checkpoints. More information about the Mattawa River Canoe Race can be found online at www.nbmca.on.ca or by contacting the NBMCA at (705) 474-5420.

The North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA) was founded in 1972 by the Province of Ontario and the NBMCA’s 10 member municipalities. A non-profit organization, the NBMCA works closely with the public to ensure the environmental health of the region’s watershed. The NBMCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities who are members of Conservation Ontario.

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