Medfield Paddler Joins 'Run of the Charles' Canoe, Kayak Race

A Medfield resident has joined a group of paddlers to take part in this year’s "Run of the Charles" canoe and kayak race.

The event, hosted by the Charles River Watershed Association, is in its 32nd year and will take place on Sunday, April 27.

The race celebrates ongoing improvements of the Charles River and welcomes nearly 1,200 paddlers. Anthony Papantonis, of Medfield, is entered in the Corp Category of the 0-Mile Race, the CRWA announced this week. 

The Run of the Charles features paddling races for all skill levels, from expert to beginners.

The $5,000 Professional Flatwater Canoe Marathon draws elite paddlers from across the United States and Canada, while the 24-Mile relay race attracts many corporate teams ready for a great bonding experience. Along with those events, the 19-Mile, 9-Mile, and 6-Mile races bring out recreational paddlers ranging in age from 11 to 80.

The race’s Finish Line Festival will be at the state Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Artesani Park in Brighton, and is free to all racers and spectators and hosts day-long entertainment with live music from Wayland band Mid Life Crisis.

Vendors will be on site to showcase their products and talents, and Big Al's Premium Fun Foods will be on site grilling up burgers and sausages and serving fries and drinks.  

While registration for the event will be open up to and including race day, racers are encouraged to register early to avoid late fees.