Salem Sound Coastwatch plans July 19 fundraiser

SALEM – An ocean kayak race will add drama to the annual nature festival held by Salem Sound Coastwatch on Saturday, July 19, at Forest River Park, 98 West Ave.The grassroots organization will host a 5-mile kayak race in Salem Harbor at 1 p.m. The race is part of the family-oriented Swim & Fin OceanFest, a daylong celebration of Salem Sound’s resources.”This should be a fun race,” said Ted Warren, the race director. “Salem Harbor is a great venue for flat-water paddling, and it’s unusual because spectators will be able to see the whole race from Forest River Park or from a boat.”The American Canoe Association (ACA)-sanctioned race includes men’s and women’s competitive classes, and a touring class for people who just like to have fun on the water. Canoes, single-person kayaks, outrigger canoes or surf skis are all approved for the event. The race follows a triangular course between Forest River Park and Winter Island, with four straight legs of 1.25 miles each.The entry fee is $25 in advance, $35 on the day of the race. Participants who are not ACA members must purchase one-day individual event coverage for $5 on race day. All proceeds from the races will benefit Salem Sound Coastwatch and its efforts as a non-profit watershed protection organization.Mayor Kim Driscoll and the city donated use of the park, according to Warren.Other water-related events at the OceanFest include the Salem Harbor Swim, which consists of 500-meter and 1,500-meter open water races with and without fins. The swim is open to all ages and levels. The entry fees are the same as for the kayak races. Swimmers will receive free caps and tote bags. Prizes will be awarded by age group.The OceanFest, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., also features nature- and health-related activities, live music and entertainment, games, food, and return of “Stormy” the 15-foot tall rubber ducky. Parking and festival admission are free.”It promises to be an exciting yearly paddling race,” said Warren.For more information or to register, go online to www.swimandfin.org or contact Salem Sound Coastwatch at [email protected] or call 978-741-7900. The rain date is Sunday, July 20.