The cold, blustery weather could not chill the enthusiasm for the opening of the north - country canoe race season in Saranac Lake on Saturday. The Icebreaker attracted a field of 77 canoes, kayaks and guideboats with people coming from New England, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Quebec, and even Colorado to paddle the open water of the Saranac River! According to race director Brian McDonnell " The lack of snow in most places other than here, and the obvious spring fever of numerous paddlers has kept the canoe race hotline phone ringing. We were anticipating a good turn out, even with the winter conditions."
The fastest time of the day went to kayaker Dave Hunter of Lake Placid. Dave finished the 5 mile course in 32:27. The fastest solo canoeist was Terry Kent who came in from Denver, Colorado to compete. Terry's time was 33:25. The fastest tandem canoe team was Neal Sand, of Plattsburgh and Guy Choiniere of High Gate Center, Vermont. Their time was 34:52. The fastest guideboater was Chris Hoyt of Hinesburg, Vermont crossing the finish line at the Pine Street bridge at 42:06.
The event was not necessarily about speed. A number of recreational canoeists and kayakers were entered to celebrate "Spring" and get their boats out of winter storage. For many, The Icebreaker was the first time they have paddled this year. Part of the attraction of paddling in events in the Adirondack Arc Canoe race series is the broad spectrum of paddlers, from literally world - class athletes to game novices.
Support for the Icebreaker came from the Saranac Lake Village Water Department, Police Department, and Fire and Rescue Squad. Communications were provided by the Tri Lakes Amateur Radio Club. Post Race Activities were held at the Waterhole Upstairs. The Blue Moon Cafˇ contributed warm beverages at the finish line and delicious hot soup for participants at the awards ceremonies.
The Icebreaker is the first event in the Adirondack Arc Canoe Race Series hosted by the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, the Tupper Lake Chamber of Commerce and MAC'S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear. The Adirondack Arc is the lead sponsor of the series. The Arc is a non - profit grass roots organization that enriches the lives of people with developmental disabilities. People from the Arc community are involved in all aspects of the race series. For more information about the race series call MAC'S Canoe Race Hotline at 518 - 891 2744.
In partnership with the Chamber, Brian McDonnell of McDonnell's Adirondack Challenges is organizing the Saranac Lake Canoe Races.
