LOOKING GOOD!
Water, weather conditions look good for 'special' Canoe, Kayak Classic

Conditions look good for next Saturday when over 100 paddlers are expected to take to the waters of the Driftwood Branch of the Sinnemahoning River for an event that has a long, storied history and a bright, eventful future.

Paddlers in the 34th Annual Cameron County Canoe and Kayak Classic will shove off at noon Saturday, April 5 near the Emporium Country Club for a 10-mile ride through one of the most scenic areas in the state.

"There are not a lot of places you can competitively paddle and see the kind of scenery you'll see in this race," said race organizer Randy Bailey. "And while the competitive paddlers might not take in much of the scenery, the ones out there just for fun will and that's what's great about this race."

Themed, "Paddling Waters of the Pennsylvania Wilds," the race draws hundreds of paddlers and as many spectators from around the region.

Pre-registration has been steady, but Bailey said "there's plenty of room for more paddlers!"

This year's event will feature an honorary moment when paddlers who took part in the first race over three decades ago are recognized for pioneering the sport locally.

"This really has the potential to be a special race," Bailey said. "It's going to be nice to pay these guys a long-overdue tribute."

Eight of the 16 paddlers who took part in the 1975 race are expected to lead the pack down the 11-mile stretch of the Driftwood Branch of the Sinnemahoning.

Bailey pointed out that the committee wanted to recognize the "founders and early participants" of the race and he hopes that some of the veteran paddlers will "share stories of the early years."

Registration takes place from 8:30 am until 11:30 am. near the starting line on Route 120, about 10 miles east of Emporium. Fees to race are $15 for adults and $10 for 17 years old and younger.

A dozen prizes made and donated by local artists will be given as prizes in addition to the paddle plaques given to division winners. Grand prize will be a new kayak.

Paddlers will be encouraged to drive their vehicles downstream to the finish line in Driftwood. They will be bused back to the starting line for free.

A dinner and the awards ceremony at will be held at 3:30 pm at the Emporium Firehall.

A spaghetti dinner will also be provided by the Emporium Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Grand prizes will be given away to participants, including framed artwork, photography and a hand made quilt.

Posters created by Woodland Elementary School students in third through sixth grade will be displayed at the post-race awards ceremony.

For more information, contact Bailey at (814) 546-2011, email at beetlecamp@yahoo. com or visit www.eteamz. com/canoeclassic.