A gray drizzly morning grew into a beautiful afternoon for the 2024 Silver Lake Paddlesport Race. On Sunday, October 13, there were 65 racers that battled to win their class paddling on Silver Lake. A variety of classes were available, such as stand-up paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, canoes, surfskis and outrigger canoes. The fastest time was a double surfski paddled by Joel Pecosz and Dave Thomas. These paddlers from Massachusetts completed the five-mile race in 42 minutes and 27 seconds. There were also seven paddlers that enjoyed the fall foliage with a leisurely two-mile paddle around the lake. Quinnipiac River Watershed Association kindly donated their kayaks for use for those wanting to participate without owning a watercraft. After all the exercise, everyone enjoyed lunch and awards. Donated door prizes were won by lucky participants. Surfrider CT held a sprint/elimination challenge after the festivities. Congratulations goes to Sujing Nettland from Guilford, CT & Jake Linley from Lovell, Maine for fastest female/male SUP paddler. Mule Security, a major sponsor of the race, provided each participant with a commemorative towel. The race was a fundraiser for Kuhn Employment Opportunities, which is located on the Meriden side of the lake. Over $1,000 was raised at this event. Kuhn is a nonprofit organization that helps adults with disabilities become successfully employed in our community. Kuhn provides person-centered services, job skill assessment opportunities, job development, on-the-job training and supervision, and transportation services to meet individual needs. The Berlin Volunteer Firemen along with other volunteers with boats ensured that everyone was safe. A good time was had by all!
