Herald Neighbors

Canoe racers vie for first place medals

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The Great Canoe Races are one of the oldest Freeport traditions that welcome residents and visitors from the tri-state area to compete for first place medals. The races were a day long event, with winners awarded medals. The races started on Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. and continued through the early afternoon.

This year also featured a friendly competition amongst the local businesses. All Island Dock Builders representatives, Joe Micciulli and Rob Weltner raced and celebrated their first place win for their company. Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy teamed up with Nassau County Legislator Steve Rhoads and also placed first.

Additional races were held on Aug. 6 at Milburn Boat Basin on Atlantic Avenue between Freeport and Baldwin. Those races supported children and adults with Down Syndrome.

The races are hosted by the Freeport Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the Freeport Police Athletic League, with support from the village. The funds raised are used to support youth programs and activities, like PAL’s youth sports programs. Another portion of the funds will also go to support the chamber’s community programming.