Kids & Family
2018 Port Washington-Manhasset Bay Kayak Run a BIG success
14th Annual family event was largest turnout ever
On Saturday July 21, 2018--a cool and sunny summer day--103 paddlers in 77 kayaks and three paddle boards enjoyed a glorious morning of family fun in the 14th Annual Port Washington - Manhasset Bay Kayak Run. The Community Chest of Port Washington and the Town of North Hempstead co-present this on-the-water event, with major assistance from John Thompson of Atlantic Outfitters and the North Shore Kayak Club. The Peter & Jeri Dejana Family Foundation provide event sponsorship.
Participants of all ages (5 to 88) enjoyed the beauty of Manhasset Bay as they launched their boats from the Town Dock, Inspiration Wharf, Manorhaven beach boat launch and other locations around the Bay to begin the 5+ mile loop. Dr. Joel Ziev, Community Chest board member and Kayak Run director, observed, “the Kayak Run is a great way for residents of the Town to get out and enjoy the loveliness of Manhasset Bay.”
The sound of the starting gun at 10 AM sharp announced the start and volunteers provided encouragement from land as the kayakers passed each of 12 checkpoints. An East wind made the course more challenging, this year but the Town’s bay constable patrol boats and Port’s fire boat keep kept a watchful eye on all participants and were right there when help was needed.
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Raffles prizes are awarded at the Town Dock after all were on land. The grand prize winner of a new kayak was Samantha D’Alonzo, age 19 of Port Washington. Atlantic Outfitters, West Marine and other community members generously donated additional raffle prizes.
This year the Town honored Edna Turner, North Shore Kayak Club and a Kayak Run originator (as well as Twin Pines founder) for her dedication to the local community and presented her with a Proclamation. The proceeds from the Port Washington - Manhasset Bay Kayak Run benefit the Community Chest of Port Washington whose mission is to distribute funds and provide below market rate rent to charities dedicated to improving the Port Washington community for all residents.