For its 10th year as a spring paddling race and celebration, the Aroostook River Fun Run, scheduled for Saturday, May 20, has expanded to bring together paddlers, bikers, walkers and runners.
Along with the traditional 8-mile downriver trip from the Washburn boat landing to the Presque Isle Fish & Game Club, this year people also can participate in a group bike ride from Caribou or a run and walk from the Presque Isle Community Center.
The Aroostook River Fun Run previously had been organized by the Presque Isle and Washburn Rotary Clubs. This year, however, the organizers wanted to bring in the Caribou Rotary and Presque Isle Kiwanis Clubs as well, said Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, which also helps operate the event.
“We wanted to expand the reach of this event,” Fowler said.
Fran Cyr, left, won the solo canoe race during the Aroostook River Fun Run from Washburn to Presque Isle on May 14, 2016. A drizzly start to the race gave way to a sunny-second half and finish. (Anthony Brino)
“The collaboration of more clubs and more communities is positive,” she said. “As the population of Aroostook County declines it is more important that we work together to promote the assets of the region.”
The addition of bicyclists and pedestrians may help draw more people to the event during the short spring season, and it may “encourage more people to enjoy the Aroostook River and have an opportunity to visit the Presque Isle Fish & Game Club,” Fowler said.
While paddlers, bikers and pedestrians will start at different locations, their trips all will finish at the Fish & Game Club, where the lodge overlooking the Aroostook River will host a barbecue.
People can register with the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce or the Presque Isle Rotary Club. The fee is $10 for adults and $ 7 for those 18 and under. The cost includes a barbecue meal following the race and a shuttle to pick up vehicles. Proceeds will go to the Francis Malcolm Science Center in Easton.
