Utica is hosting is first-ever flatwater paddle race along the Erie Canal and Mohawk River, from Rome to Utica, according to a statement from the city.
The first annual Bank of Utica Canal Cities Classic, an 18-mile point-to-point flatwater paddle race will start at Bellamy Harbor Park in Rome and ends at Utica's Harbor Point on Sept. 19.
There is one portage at the Erie Canal Trail before the River St. bridge in Whitestown, a 350-yard carry that brings paddlers from the Erie Canal to the Mohawk River.
At the conclusion of the race, stay for the Erie Canal History & Heritage Festival, featuring live music by Our Common Roots, food trucks, Saranac beer tent, a mobile exhibit from the Utica Children's Museum, Oneida County History Center exhibit, and more!
"We could not be happier to see this event come to fruition," Utica Mayor Michael Galime said in a statement. "It started from a conversation on how to activate our harbor, grew into a fun discussion of a kayak and canoe race, and resulted in two communities working together connected by the canal, mohawk river, and our shared interests in growing our region. My sincere thanks go out to every partner. I can't wait for the inaugural start."