Bellaire, MI – Paddling is becoming an even more popular recreational activity and Paddle Antrim is offering many ways for people to get out on the water this year. “We want to get more people out on the water for a fun and safe experience this summer,” said Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim Executive Director. “From relaxed paddles to classes to large festivals – there is something for everyone.”
Paddle Antrim hosts regular community paddles throughout the region to encourage paddlers to try new areas, including a family friendly rafting trip on the Jordan River. In addition, classes are available for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing – many include use of gear for those who may not own any yet.
These classes are excellent for those who are new to the sport as well as those who have been paddling but never had any formal training. After 10 years of kayaking, Casey Clement took a class last year. “As our paddle class instructor so eloquently put it, ‘You don’t know what you don’t know’,” said Clement. “Turns out I knew even less than I thought! Taking the kayak classes helped make me a more efficient, and safer, paddler.”
Paddle Antrim’s also hosts one of the best non-competitive paddling events in the region, the Paddle Antrim Festival, which attracts paddlers from across the state and the nation. This three day festival, September 13-15, includes a fun, non-competitive kayak event where paddlers can enjoy being out on Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes Water Trail. There are opportunities for all levels of paddlers, from beginners to advanced, to enjoy a great time both on and off the water. People choose to paddle one or both days and choose the distance they want to travel. This Festival includes three days of live music, great food and drinks all weekend long for both paddlers and the entire community.
The Paddle Antrim is launching their summer season on June 7th with a Summer Kick-Off Event at Short’s Brewing Company’s Production Facility, 211 Industrial Park in Elk Rapids, from 6:00-8:30 pm. In addition to information on Paddle Antrim and their events, Short’s will double all donations to Paddle Antrim and each donor will get a beer for just $1. Paddle Antrim invites everyone to come out, enjoy great food and drinks, and get ready for a fun season out on the water.
For additional information on Paddle Antrim, go online https://www.paddleantrim.com or contact Paddle Antrim at info@paddleantrim.com or 231-492-0171.
About Paddle Antrim
Paddle Antrim is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization whose mission is to protect our water resources by using paddle sports to connect people to our waterways. Through stewardship, education, improved water trail access, and promotion of our waterways we will increase water resources protection and enhance the economic vitality of the region.