5/19/2018

Scott Orlando

Akron Paddle and Portage Race

Akron, Ohio

Finish Time:  NA

Finish Place:  4th overall

Race Review By Scott Orlando

The Akron Paddle and Portage Race is an interesting kayak and canoe race held in the lakes and canals of Akron Ohio.  The concept of the race is to honor the tradition of the Native Americans who paddled and carried their boats through Summit County.  The course is diverse crossing two lakes and winding its way through the historic Ohio Erie Canals.  Participants paddle around 5 miles and than can choose a short portage of half a mile or a long portage of 1.5 miles along the towpath trail to the finish.   I had planned on using a light 16′ kayak for the race but that boat go stuck in PA so I used a shorter but much heavier molded kayak.  The kayak was no mach in the water for several much lighter racing boats in the field and I struggled to portage the 55 pound boat the half mile to the finish.  I really enjoyed the paddle, but the portage not so much.  This was just the second year for the race.  I plan to work with the organizers to help improve the race for next year.  The race was a nice value as participants received custom shirts, wooden hand made finisher medals, a box lunch and locally brewed craft sodas.