Canoe-kayak race to benefit TVCC special needs scholarship fund

The Neches River Runners will host the 2021 Neches Wilderness Canoe & Kayak Race, an all-day event that kicks off 7 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, in Anderson County, just below Lake Palestine and Blackburn Dam, finishing at 22 miles downstream at U.S. Highway 79.

According to necheswildernessrace.com, the group – a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation and education – hosts the annual fundraiser to benefit a special needs scholarship fund at the Trinity Valley Community College.

The race is set up with two classes of paddlers: Leisure class and pro class, which have staggered start times, the site noted. Water stations and check points are setup at two locations along the racecourse, with race volunteers monitoring paddlers' condition, and providing water to anyone needing it.

Radio operators also are stationed along the way to provide instant contact to emergency personnel should it be necessary, while a drag boat sweeps the river from starting line to finish to make sure no stragglers remain on the river, it added.