New paddle club to host water races supporting charities

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The 2021 fundraising and race proceeds will benefit the mental health education programs of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan. Courtesy Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club

The newly formed nonprofit Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club will host community paddle events on June 12 and Aug. 28 on Mona Lake at Ross Park, 82 Randall Road in Norton Shores.

“Mona Lake and Ross Park offer an impeccable race location for paddlers of all experience levels,” said Ryan Bryker, co-founder of the Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club. “With the entire racecourse being viewable from shore, we’re excited to provide a fun, family-friendly event for racers and spectators alike.”

The 2021 fundraising and race proceeds will benefit the mental health education programs of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan.

The events will include FUN ONE, a 1-mile paddle, and 5K and 10K races. The FUN ONE will feature a water start, while the 5K and 10K races will have a running beach start and finish. The 5K and 10K races will earn racers points for the Midwest Paddle League.

“The past year has highlighted the critical need for mental health awareness and support,” Bryker said. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to team up with the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan and support the Be Nice. campaign and their essential work in our community.”

Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club race classes will include a 14-foot standup paddleboard, 12-and-a-half-foot standup paddleboard, surfski, kayak and outrigger.

Check-in for the June 12 race will be held from 7:30-8:30 a.m. with a mandatory race meeting beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The races will begin at 9 a.m. with an awards ceremony immediately following. Race registration must be completed before June 12.

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