Competition is fierce in the two Northern Hardware Prince George Canoe Races. 250News archive

Prince George, B.C. – The 2017 Northern Hardware Prince George Canoe Race attracting competitors from across Canada as well as points in the United States hits the water today on the Nechako and Fraser Rivers.

There are two races involving paddlers ranging from masters to 14-year-olds: the Alexander Mackenzie Class for experienced tandem canoes travels 67.5km, from Isle Pierre to the finish line at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park.  That race starts at 9 am.

The Simon Fraser Class, open to tandem canoes, solo and double kayaks, voyageur canoes and stand-up paddle boards, covers a 32km course down the Nechako from Wilkins Park to Lheidli T’enneh Park.  The race has a 10 am start and both events are expected to attract spectators to the many vantage points along the banks of the two waterways.

Prince George Search and Rescue and the PG Jet Boat Society are teaming up to provide safety services for the racers.

Entrants are competing for over $10,000 plus many other prizes and the racing will be followed by a post-race social, barbecue, prize awards ceremony and raffle draws.  The Grand Raffle Prize is a Clipper WW II ultralight touring canoe.