365 Things to Do in Memphis #144: Race Your Canoe (or Kayak) on the Mississippi

Grab your canoe or kayak and get in the water during the Outdoors, Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race. The annual race is assignment #144 in the 365 Things to Do in Memphis.

More than 500 people will dip their paddles in the water for the June 16th race, which is one of the largest canoe and kayak races in the Southeast.The races are open to anyone, but expect some hardcore competition. In the past five years, the race has drawn Olympians, world champions and amateurs from all over the world to compete for $15,000 in cash and prizes.

The race starts downriver from Green Belt Park on Mud Island. During the race, the coast guard will have all barge traffic stopped and the harbor patrol will be on duty.

If you're planning to participate you have to register by Friday, June 15th at any Outdoors Inc. location. For those of you who just want to watch, the races start at 10:13 a.m. (exactly) and awards will be given out at noon.

Go there:

31st Annual Outdoors, Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race

June 16, 2012
Green Belt Park (on Mud Island)
7 a.m. – 1 p.m.