Register now for annual canoe, kayak race

The Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race is now accepting registrations for the 55th annual race, which will be Sunday, June 5, on the Fox River.

The historic event will feature two different lengths for paddlers to choose from: a 10-mile run starting in St. Charles and a six-miler from Batavia, with both races finishing at McCullough Park in Aurora.

The event is open to paddlers of all ages and abilities, featuring 11 canoe divisions, eight kayak divisions and one 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," said event coordinator Jeff Long.

A 10-mile race will begin at 9 a.m. from Mount St. Mary Park in downtown St. Charles, with a six-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 feature food, music, cold beer, 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, goody bag, lunch fare with chips and drink and be eligible for prize drawings.

Visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org to register online. Group discounts are available. Registration forms also are available at all park district community centers. Preregistration ends at noon June 1.

For more information, call (630) 859-8606.