KAYAKERS, CANOERS AND PADDLEBOARDERS FROM ACROSS THE REGION TO CONVERGE ON MOHAWK FOR “MONTGOMERY KAYAK-A-THON”

Event Sponsored by Visit Montgomery County Encourages
Outdoor Enthusiasts to Explore the Historic River

(GLEN, NY) – For many, spending a hot, lazy summer day on the water seems like a dream scenario – and Montgomery County’s historic Mohawk River is the perfect place to make that happen. That’s why Visit Montgomery County and the  Amsterdam Rotary have teamed up to host the “Montgomery Kayak-a-thon,” a unique paddling event that will take participants down the mighty Mohawk, from Glen to Amsterdam.

Launch from the Aqueduct Boat Launch at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

Launching from the Aqueduct Boat Launch at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site on Saturday, August 26 at 8 a.m., paddlers will enjoy scenic views as they travel eastbound on the Mohawk River, including passing through Locks 12 and 11 of the historic Erie Canal. The approximately 5-mile paddle will conclude at Port Jackson in Amsterdam.

“Everyone loves to spend time on the water, and the Mohawk River is a quintessential part of our county and its communities,” said Montgomery County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort.

“Kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding have all become incredibly popular, in part because it allows people of all means and backgrounds to enjoy the water without the major investment that comes with owning a boat. We’re excited to use this event to showcase what a wonderful resource the Mohawk River is and encourage people to think about Montgomery County when they want to get outdoors,” Ossenfort said.

 “With all the wonderful attractions in and around Montgomery County, our Amsterdam Rotary club was looking to do some type of fun kayak race/event on the Mohawk.  Rotary does a lot of fundraising events throughout the year to help support many of our community agencies, non-profits and local clubs,” Andrew Roth, President of the Amsterdam Rotary said. “We are happy Visit Montgomery County took the initiative on hosting this event and we are happy to partner with them.”

Have some fun at the Rubber Duck Race!

The Amsterdam Rotary Club will be hosting a Rubber Duck Race after the paddle. People can purchase ducks for $10 prior to the kayaking event or directly after to participate.  All proceeds raised will go to the Amsterdam Rotary Club.

Admission for the event is $18.50 and includes lunch at Lorenzo’s at 2 p.m. Participants can register online at https://bit.ly/MontgomeryKayak-a-thon. Anyone who registers for the event will be entered to win a new kayak from Upstate Kayak Rentals. Winners will be drawn at the end of the event. Check-in will begin at 8 a.m. and participants will launch into the river at 9 a.m. The trip is anticipated to take paddlers approximately four hours.

A limited number of kayak rentals will be available through Upstate Kayak Rentals at a cost of only $25.Rental kayaks must be reserved in advance and can be obtained at this link.

Transportation will be available for paddlers who wish to park their vehicle at Port Jackson, after dropping their kayak, canoe, or SUP at the boat launch on the morning of the event.