Flat Water Fun

By CHERIL VERNON
The Palestine Herald

July 17, 2008 04:17 am

— The East Texas River Runners, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation and education, will host the 18th Annual Wilderness Canoe Race on Aug. 2.
From a starting point at Lake Palestine, more than 150 canoeists are expected to participate in the 22-mile scenic race down the Neches River trail. Amateurs and leisure classes will begin promptly at 8 a.m. and pro classes, aluminum and unlimited solo will launch at 9 a.m. behind the Blackburn Dam. The course completion gate is at U.S. 79 east of Palestine. Course spectators also are encouraged to watch launches throughout the morning. Canoes will be launched by class and division.
Spokesperson for the event, Ed Furman, says that the average canoeist may make the flat-water trip in three to ten hours depending upon the individual’s skill and equipment used.
“Skilled canoeists have considered it the ‘toughest little race in Texas’,” Furman said. “But for a leisurely-paced race, it is a good opportunity to see the river and experience nature. Those who complete the course may be extremely tired, but many have a definite increase in self-confidence.”
The event is a scholarship benefit for future Trinity Valley Community College students. Any student may apply for the scholarship. Last year $2,000 in scholarships were awarded to 18 students. Monies are held in a discretionary fund at TVCC to fund these scholarships. Members of TVCC staff and financial advisor screen all scholarship applications received and discuss the dispersion of these funds with the Board of Directors of the East Texas River Runners Board prior to awarding these scholarships. Between 1990 and 2008, an estimated $16,000 has been awarded to deserving students.
Entry fees are $35 per person for the Pro Division. Professional level or semi-pro athletes have typically considered this special advanced category. Leisure Division canoe entry is $25 per person. Categories include senior, adult, and junior. Canoe rentals will be available for $35 to those who reserve in advance or on a first-come, first-served basis the morning of the race.
All canoe rental funds go directly into the scholarship fund. All participants are required to have a life vest in the boat at all time. Early registration for this event is encouraged, as there is a $5 late fee after Aug. 1 to cover the expense of mailing t-shirts not ordered in advance. Online registration is available at www.downrivertons.com.
Course security and transportation back to the launch site will be provided. Palestine Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Medical Services and volunteers will be on site for any first aid assistance needed. Awards will be presented in the categories listed and all entrants will receive a t-shirt.
For an application and complete rules, call Ed Furman at 903-584-3288 or e-mail at efurman@lycos.com. If responding via e-mail, please include your address and telephone number for record purposes.
Palestine Inn, Best Western, 1601 W. Palestine Ave. is the sponsoring hotel. To make hotel reservations call 903-723-4655.
For further information about the canoe race, contact Ed Furman at 903-584-3288 or via e-mail at efurman@lycos.com.
The East Texas River Runners will meet at 6:30 p.m. July 24 to discuss the canoe race at Trinity Valley Community College’s library on the Palestine campus. Anyone wishing to attend will be welcomed.

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