Brattle Paddle

by Gail Kotowski

(Founding Member & Board Member from Connecticut)

This Sunday, a small SUP class joined the canoes and surf skis for a 5 or 9 mile race on the West and Connecticut Rivers. This was my first time doing this race and an experience I plan to repeat.

The Connecticut River separates Brattleboro, Vermont from Hinsdale, New Hampshire. The race is part of the New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association ( NECKRA) series. The entry fee is a modest $20, which includes snacks,a very cool sticker and a T-Shirt. It ends and starts at a dock by the Marina restaurant . The proceeds are donated to a local charity that helps people get on their feet and towards independent living.

The course included paddling under several bridges, some current and some shallow areas where you could cool off. The weather report predicted rain and thunderstorms, which never appeared but most likely kept a few racers away. When forecast is iffy, it is still best to show up !

The awards ceremony was low key.  First placers received a paddle trophy as well as a block of Grafton cheese, which 2nd and 3rd place also received. Unfortunately it is wrapped in wax, and mine melted in the car, while eating lunch with my new friends at the Marina restaurant! An 80 year old canoe paddler celebrated his birthday cake with everyone.

The series has a championship race on July 30 starting on the New Hampshire side of the Connecticut River. Information can be found at www.Neckra.org for this and all races in the series.