Concord paddling enthusiasts are invited to help make history on Sept. 7 at Weirs Beach’s Endicott Rock Park in Laconia. Lake Winnipesaukee is the site of the New Hampshire Lakes Association’s attempt to bring the Guinness World Record for the largest canoe and kayak raft on a single body of water to New Hampshire. It will take 2,000 boats to break the current record.
The record attempt is part of LakeFest 2013: Hands Across the Water, a fun-filled, family-friendly, educational event, with live music, activities, canoe and kayak sales, and displays. LakeFest is a celebration of New Hampshire’s lakes, and an opportunity for attendees to learn more about protecting them.
Online registration is now available at nhlakefest.org for just $15 per canoe or kayak. All kayakers and canoeists registered by Aug. 15 will be entered to win a new Old Town Guide 147 canoe from Irwin Marine. Canoe and kayak rental options are available during online registration, and rental boats will be waiting onsite the morning of Sept. 7.
Participants can register inpidually or form teams with family, friends, neighbors, lake association members and co-workers; team prizes will be awarded. Boat inspection and drop off begins at Endicott Rock Park on Sept. 6 from noon to 7 p.m.; overnight security will be provided. Registered boaters who arrive on Sept. 6 can enjoy a discounted cruise on the M/S Mount Washington. Boat inspections and check-in resume Sept. 7 at 7 a.m., and the Guinness World Record attempt raft forms at approximately 10 a.m., immediately after the Mount Washington cruise ship leaves port. Canoeists and kayakers will have check-in and inspection locations available at both Weirs Beach and Meredith Bay.
Volunteers are needed to help the lakes association prepare for and host LakeFest 2013. Interested volunteers can visit nhlakefest.org, select the “volunteer” option during online registration, or call 226-0299.
