On your marks, the fourth oldest marathon canoe race in Ontario is returning to Bradford West Gwillimbury on May 11.
The Marsh Mash attracts canoeists, kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders and outrigger paddlers from all over the province in multiple classes and race distances ranging from 5. 7 kilometres to 28 km, according to a Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury news release.
The canal, which surrounds the Holland Marsh, provides one of the best canoe racing courses in Ontario, the town said.
The race is not just for experienced and competitive canoeists and kayakers, with a variety of recreational categories, including a 5.7-km adult and child category and a 5.7-km stand-up paddleboard category, also offered.
A full list of available race classes is available at marshmash.ca.
"Bradford West Gwillimbury is proud to host Marsh Mash for its 43rd year, welcoming paddlers from all over Ontario to race along the canal. Whether you are an experienced canoeists/kayaker or a recreational paddler, everyone is welcomed to join us and enjoy the opportunity to paddle the Holland Marsh," said Mayor James Leduc.
The race operates in a partnership with Iain Craig and his family, and the town's community services department.
The event is sanctioned by the Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racing Association (OMCKRA) and is a world team qualifier for the ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships.
Registration is open now at marshmash.ca. All athletes must register online in advance. Registration will close on May 9 at 8 a.m.
On race day, athlete check-in begins at 8 a.m. at Sovereign Grace Church, 1466 5th Sideroad in Bradford, with an athlete briefing at 9:15 a.m. and the races starting at 10 a.m.
