Registration under way for Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race

The Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race is accepting registrations for the 54th annual race on the Fox River.

The event on Sunday, June 7, will feature two lengths for paddlers to choose from - a 10-mile run starting in St. Charles and a 6-miler from Batavia - with both races finishing at McCullough Park in Aurora.

Open to paddlers of all ages and abilities, the event features 11 canoe divisions, eight kayak divisions and an open, noncompetitive division.

"The Mid-Am is meant for everybody - from ultracompetitive, experienced river runners to young families and novices who just want to enjoy a memorable paddling experience on the Fox River," event coordinator Cody Kamp said.

The 10-mile race begins at 9 a.m. from Mount St. Mary Park in downtown St. Charles, with the 6-mile race starting at 10:30 a.m. from the VFW in Batavia, just south of downtown.

Boats will be launched in heats of 10 every four minutes from both start areas. Free shuttle buses for participants and spectators will run continuously from McCullough Park to both starting sites beginning at 7 a.m.

All-inclusive canoe and kayak rental packages are available for both races at discounted prices, with start area delivery and finish line pickup of rental boats included.

A riverside party for all paddlers, friends, families and spectators will take place at the finish area at McCullough Park and will feature food, music, prize drawings, local vendors and live interviews with paddlers.

An awards ceremony will conclude the event, with awards for first-, second- and third-place finishers in each division for both races.

All registered paddlers will receive a commemorative T-shirt, goodie bag and lunch with chips and drink, and will be eligible for prize drawings.

Visit foxvalleyparkdistrict.org to register online. Registration forms also are available at all park district community centers. For information, call (630) 859-8606.