Empire Kayaks 12th Annual Mayday On The Bay Kayak Race was the perfect way to kick off this year’s kayaking season. Over 60 kayakers enjoyed the sunshine and 80 degree temperature as they paddled around Garrett Marsh in this fun 3 mile race. James Kowalski of Lynbrook was first overall with a time of 24 minutes 13 seconds. NACK Board Member Deborah Horne of Miller Palce was the first woman to cross the finish line paddling a QCC 600x, while Jeff Braucher and Kathleen Lieberman of Long Beach were the fastest double kayakers. Another NACK paddler, Renee Levine, placed third overall in the Womens Class in her Impex Mystic. Four other NACK paddlers turned in some impressive times, but failed to crack the top three in the highly competitive fast 18 foot kayak class. Jim Borstock of Oceanside showed you can never get tired of a good thing by competing in his 12th consecutive Mayday On The Bay Race. Congrats to all participants.

Complete Results

Photos

PS The after race refreshments were great.  Thanks to Gabrielle, Mike and the whole Empire Crew

We are proud to announce that Elizabeth O’Connor, NACK’s Director of Training has won the 2008 Joe Pina Award for exceptional volunteer effort on a regional and national level from the American Canoe Association. Elizabeth received the award at this year’s Annual Meeting in recognition of her extensive efforts in public outreach through NACK, the Long Island Paddle Sport Symposium, Atlantic Division Training activities, American Red Cross Kayak Instructor Training programs, development of the first NYS Paddle Craft Safety Check program and service on a number of local safety boards and water trails. Her efforts are awesome and an inspiration to us all!!!