FARMINGTON — A Cinco de Mayo canoe/kayak race and fun run paddle is set for Saturday, May 5, on the Sandy River.

The two events start at 1 p.m. in Strong and end about 10 miles down the river in Fairbanks.

The put-in is at the Strong American Legion at routes 4 and 145 and the takeout location is at the Little League ball field on Route 4.

Offered by the University of Maine at Farmington Fitness and Recreation Center, it is sponsored by the FRC’s Mainely Outdoors recreation program.

The program’s motivation is to provide more outdoor programs and opportunities. The event kicks off spring while promoting fitness and enjoying the outdoors. It was started last year.

“We’re excited to offer this canoe and kayak event again this season,” Jim Toner, director of the UMF Fitness and Recreation Center, said. “This is what Mainely Outdoors is all about — providing opportunities for the community to enjoy Maine’s natural resources. Last year’s response was overwhelmingly positive with 35 boaters participating, and we are looking forward to another great time!”

Last year the race was held on Mother’s Day. This year it happens to fall on Cinco de Mayo and participants can wear hats or dress up, but it’s mostly about fun and exercise, Toner said.

With student workers at the Fitness Center helping, the race is planned when the water is still high enough but not before students leave. UMF graduation is May 12.

Participants ages 12 and older of all ability levels are welcome to compete in the timed race or to paddle for fun. Paddlers must provide their own canoe or kayak, paddles, personal floatation devices and other related equipment.

There are some smaller rips in the river, but it’s not considered a difficult river to maneuver, he said.

 According to the Whitewater Classification System, this section of the Sandy River is identified as Class I, moving water with small disturbances on the surface and a few small waves, to Class II, easy rapids with smaller waves and clear channels that are obvious.

An award is given for the winning boat in each category. Racing categories include: high school students; college students; men/women, ages 18-49; century, ages over 50; and family. Children ages 12-14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration fees are $10 per person and $5 for students. Registration forms can be completed by visiting the UMF Fitness and Recreation Center or on site the day of the race from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

With only a chance of showers predicted for Saturday, no rain date is set, he said.

For race rules, registration form or more information, visit the UMF Fitness and Recreation website at http://frc.umf.maine.edu/, or call at 778-7495.

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