Registration Open for 2012 Great Russian River Race

Registration is gaining momentum for the 2012 Great Russian River Race on May 12.

The second annual event is a joint project of and Sonoma County Regional Parks Department.

It will attract some of the world’s top canoeing, kayaking and SUP athletes, local adventurers, social paddlers and corporate teams to race in two exciting events, said Russian Riverkeeper Don McEnhill.

 "The Russian River has a rich history in hosting river events, dating back to the Water Carnival of 1908," he said.  "In this tradition, Russian Riverkeeper will host the 2012 Great Russian River Race as a fundraiser for the Clean Campus Clean Creeks program and for the installation of the Veteran’s Memorial Beach Dam."

In addition to the fun of the race, the race -- known for short as GR3 -- is also a vehicle to build community spirit and involvement around Sonoma’s most important natural asset, McEnhill said.

“In 2011, the race kicked off a summer of fun on the river that revived past traditions of boat racing and of course the he said.  "Both events benefitted the community and river -- plus it’s a fun way to open the season on the river.”

The 2011 GR3 included approximately 250 paddlers, 700 River Race party-goers and an impressive list of sponsors.

This year’s event promises to double in size and has already attracted key sponsors and participants from many businesses in the Russian River area, said Sonoma County Regional Parks Director Caryl Hart.

“This is a great example of the new model for sustainable parks -- parks and their partners working together to serve our community,” Hart added.

Advanced and expert paddlers will compete in a 15-mile Bridge-to-Bridge Race, starting at the Alexander Valley Bridge. Intermediate and corporate team paddlers will do battle over the 5-mile Rio Lindo Race, starting north of Healdsburg. 

Both races will finish at the welcomed by the River Race Party featuring great food, local beer & wine and live music on the banks of the River.

The emphasis of the Great Russian River Race is adventure, competition and fun. Race winners will share over $5,000 in cash and prizes.

The two races are designed to accommodate professional athletes, corporate and social teams as well as families. Professional outfitter will manage the river operations, safety and logistics for the race

“I’ve been in the river outfitting business for many years and last year’s race was a blast for me and for our crews," said  Lollie Mercer, owner of River’s Edge Kayak and Canoe. "It was a great way to kick off the canoeing season on the River.”

 Tony Hansen, race director, invites interested paddlers to visit the website, www.greatrussianriverrace.com, and to "sign up while there is still space," he said.

For more information, contact Kate Wilson, GR3 Coordinator, Russian Riverkeeper, at  info@russianriverkeeper.org.