ATHOL — The River Rat Race season officially began on March 1 when applications for the Athol to Orange canoe race down the Millers River were posted on the event’s official website. Race chairman David Flint’s unwavering “65 degrees and sunny” prediction continues for the 56th annual race on April 13. The recent frigid temperatures failed to deter the first persistent paddlers to register, Ed Halpin, Jr. of Seekonk, MA and his partner, Ed Halpin III of Westwood, MA.
Longtime race veteran and trophy sponsor Craig Twohey of Phillipston, owner of King Phillip Restaurant, and his partner Bill Marshall of Athol were second to sign up. Twohey once again will be donating a gift certificate worth the number of years of the race. Also signed up are the teams of Shane Stowell of Athol and David Bolduc of Westminster, and Danny Naughton and Corey Kleinbauer, both of Athol. Previous winners in the women’s division, Pam Fitzgerald of Scotia, NY and Vicki Cummings of Meriden, CT., will be returning.
The Athol to Orange River Rat Race is organized by the Athol Lions Club and is open to all, from professional paddlers to newcomers. Deadline to register is Thursday, April 11. Entry fee is $42 per canoe. More information, including rules and registration forms, can be found at www.riverratrace.com. Applications are also available at the Athol Daily News front office, 225 Exchange Street, Athol, Monday through Friday, 8-5.