The 2nd Annual Blazing Paddles is a public celebration of how the Cuyahoga River has risen like a phoenix since the 1969 fire ignited the environmental movement. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes will navigate either the 2-mile Carl Stokes Memorial, 5.7-mile Ruth Patrick Memorial, or 13 mile Rachel Carson Memorial (fast canoe/kayak/surf ski only) urban courses that flow past a unique mix of riverfront sites where iconic bridges and pyramids of sand and stone stand in contrast to paved paths and green-spaces. When you participate in Blazing Paddles and recreate on the revitalized Cuyahoga River, you’ll be making a national and global statement about the value of protecting our nation’s natural resources
The scenic, winding, and protected 5.7-mile course with sweeping views of downtown Cleveland will take you under 10 bridges spanning the river before you reach the race’s iconic turnaround point - the site of the 1952 Cuyahoga River fire. The 13-mile course’s turnaround point will also pass within sight of the 1969 Cuyahoga River fire location. More details and registration at http://sharetheriver.com/blazing-paddles