Paddle Skedaddle back Sept. 14 at Quarry Springs Park

The Paddle Skedaddle at Quarry Springs Park is back with new added fun. The race kicks off at 8:15 a.m. Sept. 14 at Quarry Springs Park in Colfax.

Featuring a two-mile kayak course and a three-and-a-half-mile trial run, competitors can do both sports or focus on one and add a partner to make it a relay. Run or walk, anyone can participate.

New this year, bring your dog along with the dog walk’s category for the three-and-a-half mile walk/run course.

“We want to encourage anyone with well behaved dogs who love to walk or run to join us,” organizers said. “Please keep dogs leashed and we’ll include bags to pickup after your four legged friends with your packet pickup.”

The course starts along the shoreline with kayakers paddling south, then east to East Lake. A buoy will be set out to circle and begin the paddle back to the shoreline finish or transition point. The run heads west along the road to the southwest corner of the park towards the trail entrance. It will continue east for a mile through the woods, north around East Lake and then to the isthmus between North and East Lakes, The final three quarters of a mile will be on sandier soil back to the finish line.

Those attending need to supply their own kayak and life jackets. Iowa Adventure Co. will have a few kayaks available to rent the day of the event. Packet pick up runs from 7 to 7:30 a.m. at the park office with the racer meeting beginning at 8 a.m.

Awards will be presented at 10:30 a.m. in categories including top male and female in 17 and under, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49 and 50 and up. Awards will also go to the top three in the run only and relay teams, regardless of gender and age. Children aged 12 to 17 must have a waiver signed by a parent.

Participants will receive a T-shirt, race bib, breakfast and after race snacks, sponsor swag and free photos.

“Show off your hard work to all your friends and family every time you wear this one-of-a-kind shirt. All finishers will get a race bib to show. Hang it on your wall to show off your training and finisher status,” organizers said. “We’ll have a photographer on site and allow you to download all photos for free after the race.”

For more information or any questions, visit https://www.quarryspringspark.com/2018-paddle.