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BIG EAST RIVER X

Saturday, June 21, 2014

Sanctioned by the Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racing Association, the 2nd Annual Big East River X is only 5 1/2 weeks away. It will be a great day on the water for families and recreational paddlers enjoying some friendly competition along a safe and sheltered 9km route. The Big East River X will also be a great day for competitive marathon paddlers looking for a longer early season race. At 40km, the Marathon race will have teams paddle into Lake Vernon and up the Big East River to Arrowhead Provincial Park, returning along an out-and-back route. With plenty of categories, everyone is welcome including family teams, bantams, and adults. Try your hand racing canoes, kayaks and  stand-up paddle-boards. Located in the heart of Muskoka, this event starts and finishes in downtown Huntsville, Ontario. Whether you’re looking for a fun day on the water or to get into marathon paddle racing the Big East River X is the event is for you. Please make sure that you check out our web site and review the Competitor Details for event registration details, itinerary, parking, rules, and maps at https://muskokariverx.com/big-east-2014/. Register in advance on-line to avoid the rush of the registration lines early on Saturday morning.

Important Updates: Big East River X

Inflatable PFDs are allowable for the Big East event, as long as they are Coast Guard/DOT approved: They must be worn at all times. Please see the Big East River X Competitor Document for specific details.

Self-draining systems integrating into the bottom of the hulls do meet the requirement of a bailer, as long as the watercraft is participating in a competition/racing event. A bailing device is still required for the same watercraft when used for recreation or training. This has been confirmed with the marine division of the Ontario Provincial Police.

Please be advised that there will be a large community event being held in downtown Huntsville over the June 21-22, 2014 weekend. Main Street (downtown area) will be closed. To access River Mill Park we recommend that you use Centre Street and follow Caroline Street East to Queen Street. There are parking lots near River Mill park. Arrive early to get the best parking! (See Competitor Document for map of downtown.)

Activities for Families and Friends: Big East River X

June 21, 2014 will be a great day for paddling in Muskoka but there are tones of other great activities going on in Huntsville for your families and friends. No need to feel guilty for spending 5 hours on the water.  Downtown Huntsville will be hosting a full weekend of food, wine, gardening and renovations called “Live It Getaway”. Check out the Chamber of Commerce for all the activities happening in and around Huntsville over the June 21-22 weekend. (http://huntsvillelakeofbays.on.ca/m/events/view/Live-It-Getaway)

MUSKOKA RIVER X

September 12-14, 2014

The Longest Single Day Expedition Paddling Race in the World! After its inaugural year, the MRX has received some very respectable accolades:

• Toughest Single Day Canoe Race in the World
• Best SUP Race in Eastern Canada
• Top 25 Summer Adventures in Canada
• Top 20 Ultra-Distance paddling races in North America

For 2014 we’ve increased the number of available teams from 50 to 100. Already approaching 70% capacity, we can’t be more pleased. With paddlers coming in from as far away as Hawaii, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Vermont, Ontario should be proud to know that Muskoka is a world-class watershed and provides some of the best expedition racing around.  It’s also very accessible; being only a few hours’ drive from most points in Southern/Central Ontario, Quebec, and the northern States.

If you love paddling, check out all the details at www.MuskokaRiverX.com. Visit our 2013 year end wrap-up blog for all the links to photos, race videos, results, and more. Check out the documents section and read up on the heritage of the MRX route, study the maps, organize your weekend itinerary, and read everything you need to know to participate in the MRX.  Race it solo, with a partner, or as a relay team. Paddle a canoe, kayak, or SUP. Don’t miss out on the experience of a life-time. Challenge Yourself!

Important Updates: Muskoka River X

Mandatory Gear – New Requirement: All teams must carry means to repair the hull of their watercraft. This is a new requirement of the OMCKRA for the Muskoka River X. The means to repair a damaged hull depends on the type of materials used in manufacturing the watercraft. For example, carbon fibre vs. vinyl inflatables vs. plastic will all require slightly different methods of repair. We will be flexible on the supplies used as long as the method of repairing a damaged hull enables the watercraft to be seaworthy. Professional hull repair kits can be purchased directly from Hand Crafted Canoes (james@handcraftedcanoes.com) or you can build your own. Be mindful that dampness, dirt, residues, temperature, waterline and even types of gel coat or vinyl affect the degree to which adhesives like duct tape/Duck Tape, red sheathing tape/Tuck Tape, MACtac, and other “go-to” items will be effective. Make sure you test you kit in advance and be confident that it works. We also recommend that you contact a local boat dealer, builder, or repair shop if you have questions. Two great boat doctors recommended by the MRX crew are James at Hand Crafted Canoes in Breslau, Ontario (www.handcraftedcanoes.com) or John at Johnny’s Boat Shop in Huntsville, Ontario (www.johnnysboatshop.com/).

Bailers: Self-draining systems integrating into the bottom of the hulls do meet the requirement of a bailer, as long as the watercraft is participating in a competition/racing event. A bailing device is still required for the same watercraft when used for recreation or training. This has been confirmed with the marine division of the Ontario Provincial Police.

PADDLING GEAR AND RENTALS

Located at the start line, ALGONQUIN OUTFITTERS has everything you need to get to finish your adventure. Contact Gord (info@algonquinoutfitters.com). Whether you are racing 9km, 40km, or 130km Gord will give you all the advice needed to make sure that you are properly outfitted.

Hand Crafted Canoe is also a preferred partner and is offering a pretty sweet deal on canoe rentals: Train and race an HCC canoe for the entire season for only $600. Available only to River X competitors. Eamil James at james@handcraftedcanoes.com.

ACCOMMODATION

Both the Big East and Muskoka River X weekends are going to be quite busy this year in Huntsville. There is a large downtown festival scheduled for June 21, 2014 and there is a weekend long music festival being held in Huntsville on the MRX weekend. Except accommodation to be in short supply. Don’t leave it to the last minute to book your room. Our preferred accommodations include the King William Inn, situated only 600m from River Mill Park, as well as Tulip Inn, the turn-around point of the Big East. Reserve now!

SPONSORS and PRIZES

The Big East and MRX are not money races. Don’t expect a prize purse of few thousand dollars split between 30+ racers. You’ll just end up getting gas money and maybe a burger at McDonalds.

The MRX crew loves their gear…and the MRX is all about the gear! This is great for you because that means amazing prizes! What you can expect from the MRX are some pretty sweet prizes for the top competitors AND some even sweeter prizes for everyone else! You don’t have to be a top place finisher to win. The MRX recognizes that anyone who finishes this race is a winner. Last year we gave away over $4500 in prizes.

For 2014, it’s getting even better. Already the MRX Crew has given away free accommodation for the MRX weekend valued at $290, a custom MRX embroidered Salus Ungava life jacket valued at $150, and two HI-TEC Hard Rain Shells each valued at $109.95. Those paddlers who have registered before Feb 28/2014 and paddle both the Big East and MRX are eligible to win a $2400 Kevlar Nith River canoe from Hand Crafted Canoes. Additionally, the fasted HCC boat to paddle the MRX will win a pair of custom cedar-glass bent shaft paddles valued at $500.

But with prizes don’t stop there! The MRX crew has just signed up Lupine Lighting Systems as a product sponsor: This means that anyone who paddles the MRX is eligible to win one of their 1200 Lumen PIKO systems mated to a 13.2Ah battery providing upwards to 12 hours of daylight, including all the mounting hardware. Value? Over $1000.00.

ALGONQUIN OUTFITTERS: What more can we say about our Title Sponsor. Rich Swift and his crew at AO have worked their magic again for 2014 and that means really great gear for you! The North Face. KEEN. Petzel. Salus. Sea To Summit. AO is adding to this list of product sponsors as we speak. Expect nothing from the best from Algonquin Outfitters. They deliver and all you need to do is finish the race to become eligible for some of their great prizing.

Stay in touch by checking in our FaceBook for updates, as well as our blog.  If you have a question, don’t hesitate to drop us a line.  We try our best to respond as quick as we can.  We look forward to seeing everyone again and can’t wait for June 21st.

Cheers,  Mike & Rob.

First, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who participated in the 2013 Algonquin Outfitter’s Muskoka River X and Big East River X. We have been genuinely overwhelmed by everyone’s support. After 1.5 years of planning, we could not have imagined a more positive reception.

We would also like to express how proud we are to have been part of this event and able to witness such an overwhelming display of strength, courage, perseverance, positive attitude, and ability to push the limits of body, mind and spirit. It is not a matter of winning or loosing. For us, the Muskoka River X and Big East River X is about engaging in a personal journey throughout an amazing watershed. Everyone who was part of the River X Series, whether a racer, volunteer, or spectator had a unique experience that you can call your own. You are all finishing the 2013 season with unique memories that you can cherish, and new goals that will fuel the fire for next year’s events. And it is from this perspective that we wish to congratulate you on your courage to paddle to the start line.

And to quote Allyson MacDonald when asked why she signed up for the MRX,

“…If you don’t keep living, you end up dying…”

Well-said Allyson. Keep on living and hopefully we will see you all on the water in 2014.

Registration for the 2014 MRX and Big East River X opens November 2013.

Voting for Get Out There Magazine’s 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards is now open! If you liked our events, give us your vote under #36.

But before we snuggle down for a long post-race nap, we would like to make a few final comments…..

(Mike & Rob after the Awards on Sunday, and with only 9hrs sleep in 3.5 days of MRX’ing.)

2013 PHOTOS, VIDEOS, AND RACE RESULTS

2013 Big East River X and Muskoka River X photos  (MRX photo credits to Bill Lanning)

2013 Big East River X video race report by Brad Jennings/Get Out There Magazine

2013 Muskoka River X video race report by Brad Jennings/Get Out There Magazine

2013 Muskoka River X short vignette by Pure Muskoka’s Andy Hansen

2013 Muskoka River X pre-race article by RapidMedia

2013 Big East River X results 

2013 Muskoka River X results

2013 Muskoka River X tracker map: Click on “All Boats”, then choose your team name to see your SPOT trail and details.

If you were wondering what we were playing at the start of the 2013 MRX, here is our playlist.

SWAG

If you’re looking to wear your badge of honour for everyone to see, you can still get yourself one of our comfy and functional North Face Bionic soft shells or fitted ball caps.  The jackets are in-stock with M and L sizes while the caps will be made to order in S/M, M/L, L/XL sizes.  Jackets are $150 and caps are $35 (up a bit due to custom orders).  Christmas is coming!  We will put in one order for caps at the end of October so if you want one, let us know before then.  After that, you’ll have to wait until next year.  We can ship them off to your door for the cost of your preferred method.

TO THE VOLUNTEERS
On behalf of the competitors, we wish to thank our Volunteers for all of the amazing support they provided to the events. Everyone should be aware that without our Volunteers, these events would not have happened. From CP staffing to patrol boats to portage crossings, and even tending bonfires and marshmallow roasts, the Volunteers were invaluable. We can’t reinforce this enough. So, the next time you find yourself at an event, walk up and thank the volunteers because if it weren’t for them, you wouldn’t be racing.

WE REGRETFULLY ACKNOWLEDGE
1. We didn’t have enough portable toilets at the Start Line: We will do better next year.
2. We should have hung the portage signs closer to race day: Unfortunately, a few local residents weren’t overly neighbourly and decided to remove the signs telling you where the MRX route was around High Falls. We will do better next year to reduce the risk of portage signs being vandalized prior to the event.

TO OUR SUPPORTER
Thank you for all the support you provided the Big East River X and Muskoka River X and in making our inaugural events a huge success:

To all owners of private lands through which portage routes pass; a sincere thanks on behalf of all those who passed through your property.

Algonquin Outfitters; for being there right from the start and in providing amazing prizing to the racers, logistical and safety support, rentals, and pretty much anything else we needed to get this event off the ground. From Grey Owl paddles, Go-Pro, and Garmin to all the little stuff, you are amazing.

The Cottage Waterfront Grill; for opening your doors and letting your home become our home, and for the amazing post race meal.

CLIF; for providing the event with a trunk full CLIF BARS and CLIF SHOT Blocks. From 1st place prizing for the Big East to race kits and door prizes at the MRX, CLIF was everywhere.

Miss Nelle’s in Baysville and The Burger Shop in Bracebridge; for feeding our volunteers and race staff, and for providing outstanding food and service to our spectators.

King William Inn; for providing great accommodation to our competitors, including Team HCC who received a complimentary room for the weekend (early registration has it’s benefits). We loved seeing you’re parking lot full of canoes.

The Tulip Inn; for allowing up to set up our CP on the 40km Big East River X.

Canadian Ski Patrol Service – Muskoka Zone; for providing us with medical support.

Avantura and TrackLeaders; for providing the MRX with the SPOT gps units and live tracking map.  Over 21,000 page views for the MRX!  That’s double the average for a 1st year event.  The MRX is truly a spectator sport.

HI-TEC; for providing 10 pairs of their new Zuuks as door prizes. The MRX Crew love the Zuuks. Perfect footwear for your paddling adventures.

Badger Paddles; for providing master craftsmanship in producing paddle-medals and trophies for the Big East and MRX.

Salus Marine; for supporting our event with limited edition Ungava PFDs. We love these jackets. Salus: The best in marine wear.

Aben Graphics; for attending to all our complex printing needs in a timely manner

Muskoka Outfitters; for opening your doors and letting us use your property for CP2; and for the prize maps.

We would also want to thank the Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racing Association for sanctioning the Big East River X and Muskoka River River X and accepting our events into their annual schedule.

To Muskoka Futures, thank you for the financial support necessary to get our first year events of the start line.

We also wish to acknowledge the efforts and support received from the Huntsville-Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Huntsville, Township of Lake of Bays, Town of Bracebridge, District of Muskoka, Ontario Power Generation, Bracebridge Generation, Orillia Power, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Huntsville Fire, EMS, and OPP.

There is only about 5 weeks left to the start of the Muskoka River X and we (Mike & Rob) would like to THANK everyone for supporting this event.  First, we would like to thank all those who will actually be showing up at the starting line to paddle non-stop over 128km of wide open lake and river, 19 portages totaling over 6000m, completely self-supported:  You are all truly adventurous folk who love a challenge and we are humbled by your enthusiasm for Expedition Racing.  We look forward to meeting everyone and sharing in our love of paddling and the amazing paddling route, which is the Muskoka River system.  We are confident that you will find the Muskoka watershed an amazing place: With the race format and routes being linked up in manner that they are, we are confident that the MRX will deliver in everything that is “Expedition”!

Here is a summary of some high points that we have experienced along the road to developing the MRX:

• March 2011:  Planning for the MRX begins
• September 2012: Algonquin Outfitters becomes Title Sponsor
• October 2012: Badger Paddles becomes a sponsor.
• November 2012: Pre-Registration Opens
• January 2013: Salus becomes a sponsor
• January 2013: MRX is show-cased at Huntsville Banff Mountain Film Festival
• January 2013: Clif Bar becomes a sponsor
• March 2013: All 50 Pre-Registration spots are filled / We start building a waiting list.
• March/April 2013: Muskoka River X is chosen by Get Out There Magazine as one of the Top 25 Ultimate Summer Adventures in Canada to participate in for 2013
• April 18, 2013: MRX reaches 8,755 viewers on a single Facebook post.
• May 2013: Front page profile in What’s Up Muskoka magazine
• May 2013: Muskoka Outfitters becomes a sponsor.
• June 2013: Inaugural running of the 40km Big East River X: A huge success!
• June 2013: Awarded Muskoka Futures Grant
• July 2013: Hi-Tec becomes a sponsor

RACE DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPDATED

The Competitor Document (“The Rules…”) have been revised and uploaded to the web site.  You are strongly encouraged to read this document thoroughly so you are aware of how the event actually works.  This is not your traditional paddling race: This is a unique event that blends elements from both marathon paddling and adventure racing, so, it is best that you familiarize yourself with the race format so you know what to expect.

The Mandatory Equipment list has been revised to provide clarity around a few items that have consistently generated questions.  We have also added Cell Phones as a mandatory item.  Please see the Competitor Document for details.

Check point cut-off times have been finalized!  Check out the Competitor Document and the Itinerary to see what the benchmark is.  Paddle hard!

The Infractions and Penalties section has been more fully developed so you are aware of what constitutes an infraction, as well as the corresponding penalty.

Lastly, an itinerary of the race weekend will detail all times and locations of where you need to be and what you need to do; again, a must-read document. (Monitor for revisions as we get closer to race day.)

COURSE UPDATES

The course has been paddled and it looks great!  The water levels have fallen significantly since the flooding of April 2013 and the rivers are now safe and navigable.  We still expect river levels to reduce a bit further, consistent with seasonal flow.  The portages are all in great shape but please be mindful that many are “rough”.  Also, be prepared to get wet on many of the take-outs and put-ins: Sometimes there’s just no easy way around it….

The first 10km of the South Muskoka River after Baysvilles will deliver in spades: Expect downriver swifts, shallow gravel bars, rock, and rough portages: A true expedition!  The North Muskoka River between the Duck Chutes and Balsam Chutes will be even more interesting: Going against current, you will face a series of very shallow gravelly swifts that will challenge and frustrate even the best of you, all under the glow of headlamps!

For safety reasons, we have added a mandatory waypoint on Lake of Bays thus ensuring teams follow the safest route possible: This will add approximately 2km to the overall length of the course.  So, the event is actually measuring in at around 130km following river center.  A bit less it you cut corners…

All the details will be listed within the Course Instructions, which you will receive at On-Site Registration on September 13, 2013.

ON-SITE REGISTRATION

As indicated in the itinerary, On-Site Registration opens at 9am, Friday, September 13, 2013.  Please print off and complete the waiver, medical forms, and team form prior to arrival.  This will help you move through registration much more quickly.  The earlier you arrive the more time you will have to prep your maps and gear, get organized, relax on a river-side deck, eat a burger, have a beverage and consider why you are actually doing this event!

Also, make sure you bring a $50 (CAN) fully-refundable deposit for the SPOT GPS transmitter: Bring the deposit in cash and you will move through registration more quickly.

Lastly, you must bring your mandatory equipment to On-Site Registration: A gear check will be completed as part of the registration process.

POST-RACE MEAL and AWARDS at the COTTAGE WATERFRONT GRILL 

We are very excited to host your Post-Race meal and Awards Ceremony at The Cottage Waterfront Grill.  This location is situated across the river from River Mill Park and is centrally located in downtown Huntsville.  Let’s hope for good weather as they have the best deck in town, overlooking the river, and it would be great if we could all eat outside!

We are most excited about the food:  After paddling 128km (or should we say 130km) you deserve a great feast!  Bruce, the owner of The Cottage will be serving up a BBQ of beef kabobs, chicken and fish; along with baked potatoes with all the fixin’s and corn on the cob; bean, potato, and garden/Caesar salads and breads.  As a participant, this feast is included in your race registration.

If you would like to bring along family/friends, we are selling thirty-five (35) Meal Tickets on a first-come/first-serve basis for a price of $35/pp including tax and gratuity.  If the weather is expected to be good we will sell an additional fifty (50) tickets but we won’t know this until the day before the race.  If we are able to sell these fifty (50) meal tickets, they will be available for purchase at On-Site Registration.

If you want to purchase one of the thirty-five (35) Meal Tickets that are available now please email Mike at mike@muskokariverx.com, indicate your name/team name and how many tickets you need.  They will be included in your race kits and you can pay for them at On-Site Registration.  Again, these thirty-five (35) Meal Tickets will be reserved on a first-come / first-serve basis.

ACCOMMODATION

If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to book your weekend accommodation!  September in Muskoka is world renowned for it’s amazing colours (…the trees…)!  It’s all very beautiful however with these amazing colours come bus-loads of tourists that fill up hotels and motels.  Don’t leave this to the last minutes or you’ll be sleeping on the sidewalk.

Looking for a place to stay?  We love drive-ups as you can race-prep out of the back of your car: No hauling gear up and down elevators.  With that in mind, we highly recommend the King William Inn.  The King William is a very clean, modern and comfortable drive-up that is only 600m away from River Mill Park, and even closer to The Cottage Waterfront Grill.  This is your best park-and-race accommodation in town.  If you are looking for a quiet, rural setting or something with an efficiency unit, choose the Tulip Inn.  If you are looking for a boutique inn setting, look no further than the Portage Inn.

 NAVIGATION and MAPS

Please be advised that the google course maps shown on the web site are intended only as a general idea of the course route and are in no way intended to be used for navigation purposes.  They do not explicitly detail the exact route, including the portages that teams will be required to take.  We have received several inquiries about the accuracy of the maps: No need to be concerned!  We are very familiar with the course and you will all receive very precise course details in the format of UTM coordinates; and you will have the opportunity to plot these UTM coordinates on the race topographic maps.  These UTM coordinates have been crossed referenced both by GPS, in-person and on-site and finally, adjusted to make sure they appropriately represent the course routes according to the topographic map land features.

If you do intend to pre-run the course, please be mindful of and respect the private property along the course and only use the established portage routes, which are quite obvious.  PLEASE, stay away from and outside of the hydro dam prohibited zones: Travel inside these zones will ultimately jeopardize the future of this event.  These zones are strictly prohibited.  The MRX has worked hard to develop positive relationships with the landowners.  Please do not jeopardize these relationships.

If you haven’t already read our Blog on Navigation, we suggest you do so.  It will help you understand the concepts associated with plotting UTM coordinates on topographic maps: With 18 course maps, this is a basic and simple skill that you will need to do use.  You should also be mindful that we have increased the scale of the maps from 1:50000 to 1:24000 thereby improving navigation along the river routes; although there are a couple lake maps that remain 1:50000.  When reading our Navigation blog, you will need to adjust the scale, so, instead of each square on a 1:50000 being 2cm by 2cm, each square on the 1:24000 is 4cm by 4cm: One (1) square equals one (1) kilometre, or 10000 metres.  This will result in an 8-digit UTM for the 1:24000 and a 6-digit UTM for the 1:50000.  All other principles remain the same.  To help you plot the UTM coordinates, we strongly suggest that you invest in a compass that has both 1:50000 and 1:24000 scales already printed the x- and y-axis.  Check out our Blog on navigation (point #5) to see a photo of a compass with these UTM scales.

LIGHTING UP YOUR LIFE ON THE MRX

Paddling at night under the twinkling of stars and haze of the moon is quite a romantic experience.  However, that’s NOT what you’re here for.

By the time the sun goes down you will have been paddling for 12.5 hours…and most of you will just be starting the challenging upriver paddle, against the current of the North Muskoka River; littered with rough portages, swifty and shallow gravel bars, and windy rivers that will confuse the best of you when the shadows start creeping in.  If you haven’t considered the issue of “lighting”, we recommend that you put this on your to-do list ASAP!

When it comes to traveling at night, we like it to be bright.  Things just don’t seem so scary when you have light.  You can see things that go bump in the night (or should we say, you can avoid things that your boat might bump into in the night).  The moon is only going to be half, and if we have clouds…forget about it.  Muskoka in September is not that Land of the Midnight Sun.  It gets really dark.  So, if you haven’t got the message, light is your friend.  Start planning your lighting system.

Some things to keep in mind: A penlight won’t cut it.  You need significant lumen power in the range of 200+ to be effective for navigation.  There are tones of options out there ranging from conservatively priced headlamps to ridiculous units that can burn the retina out of a bull moose at 1000 yards.  Do your research.  Consider how you intend to use the lighting system: On your head?  On the front of your boat?  Also, make sure you find the best balance between power (lumen) and burn time.  Unless you’re the fastest boat on the water, consider the fact that there is about 11hrs between sunset and sunrise.  How will you power your navigation lights?  Rechargeable batteries are great, but will they last through the night?  What will you do if they drain early?  And yes, you do need at least one navigation light per team and one emergency back up light per person.  If you are a tandem for example, we suggest that each of you have a lighting system sufficient for navigation and carry a small emergency headlamp.  An ideal set up for a C2 is 200+ lumen headlamps per person that can take replaceable batteries plus an additional navigation lighting system attached to the bow of the boat to light up the waters in front of your bow (or see the rock you are about to hit!).  Mountain bike lighting systems work well on canoes since they are designed to mount on handlebars; and handlebars are very similar to the carrying handles at the bow of a canoe.  There are many options for the emergency light.  Plan and choose wisely.

Lastly, practice with your lighting system before the race.  Make sure it works.  Test the set up.  Test the battery life.  Don’t be the team that goes into the race cold, never testing their lighting system.  Our Search and Rescue team won’t meet you with smiles if they have to do an e-vac because of dead batteries…

If you do have question or are seeking advice, please feel free to drop us an email.  We are here to help and assist in making the MRX a positive experience for you.  Lastly, if you don’t have access to lighting systems or don’t know what to use, touch base with Algonquin Outfitters.  We work closely with them and can have a lighting system waiting for you at registration that will be more than adequate for the race.

STAYING WARM on the MRX

All we really want to say on this issue is that the average night-time temperature for Muskoka in September is 6.5 degrees Celsius.  Not quite freezing but still cold, especially when you’re wet.  By the time the sun goes down, you will be tired and you will be wet.  And let’s hope the wind isn’t blowing.

Prepare wisely and bring a warm set of cloths.  You will probably be hot and sweaty over Stage 1 and 2 but by the time you hit Stage 3 and the sun goes down, things might change drastically: A nice dry, warm change of cloths will be just what the Search and Rescue team orders.  Thus, the mandatory equipment list is not just to make life difficult.  It’s for your own safety.  Hypothermia is a real risk on this race.  Prepare wisely.

SPECTATORS

The Muskoka River X isn’t just a paddling race, it’s a Spectator Sport!  As you’re on the water, your family, friends, and kids can spend an fantastic day following your progress throughout this amazing region.  There are so many things to see and do.  They can sight-see, spend time on a hiking trail, paddle, or bike.  The MRX route is overflowing with artisans, and Muskoka is knows for it’s shopping: Cloths and jewelry, pottery and art, furniture makers and boat makers….the list goes on.  And your spectators won’t go hungry.  From bakers and jam makers to burgers or sushi, Muskoka has it all.  We even have our own breweries that would love for you to come in for a sip.

Your race kit will be filled with information, incentives, maps and advice for your spectators.  As you’re prepping your race maps, they can be planning their own race route.  So, bring your own personal spectator crew and let them enjoy their own Muskoka, MRX-style.

VOLUNTEERS

We still need a few extra people to help out at various points along the race course.  If you know of anyone who is excited about the Muskoka River X, isn’t paddling, but is wanting to get up close and involved in the experience, please have them contact us (mike@muskokariverx.com).  Volunteers will be rained with praise, thanks and appreciation!  And they will also receive an MRX race shirt, voucher for the Post Race BBQ and Awards, and 10% personal discount off of next year’s event.

PADDLE with the RACE DIRECTORS

If you’re in Huntsville on Wednesday, August 14^th or 21^st, come on out and join us (Mike and Rob) for a paddle.  We will be heading out around 7pm from River Mill Park for an hour or so and then will be spending some time at Algonquin Outfitters answering questions about the event, required equipment, etc.  Hopefully we will see you there.

That’s it for now.  If something else comes up that we need to share, we’ll be sure to make another post.  Otherwise, “Like” our Facebook so you receive all the latest Posts.  Keep an eye on the web site as we will posting the Waiver/Medical/Team Form for you to fill out and bring to On-Site Registration closer to race day.  Other than that, train hard, prep well, and we will see you all on September 13th.  Cheers,  Mike and Rob.

MUSKOKA RIVER X: SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR NEW TEAMS!!!
We are pleased to announce that we have a few new spots available for teams who wish to race the Muskoka River X on Saturday, September 14, 2013.  Register Now!  Only a few extra spots available, so, if you’ve been thinking of racing the mighty MRX, now’s your chance.  Don’t delay.  These spots are sure to fill up quickly.

BIG EAST RIVER X
We want to send a warm Thanks to everyone who supported the inaugural Big East River X. The event was a great success and we look forward to hosting it again next year; making it an even better experience for everyone.  Check out the Big East River X 2013 Results.

For those who weren’t able to participate, Brad Jennings from Get Out There Magazine was on hand to participate in the 40km C2 Rec: Check out his video race report. Check out our Facebook photo album for images of the day.  Here are a few photos of some MRX paddlers that showed up for the 40km Big East.

 MRX C1 paddler, Steve Varieur arrives in style

 MRX C2 paddler Bob Vincent (R) and his partner Dean Brown.

MRX C2 paddlers Chris Scerri and Dave Peacock

MRX C2 paddlers Peter Dobos and Susan Iori

 MRX C1 paddler Chris Near

 We were very excited to see the race SUPs out for the 40km.  Can’t wait to see them take on the full 128km.  With the likes of Bart de Zwart coming in from Hawaii, it’s sure to be an amazing race.

MUSKOKA RIVER X is picked as one of the TOP 25 ULTIMATE SUMMER ADVENTURES in CANADA for 2013
We are pleased to announce that Get Out There Magazine and KEEN footwear has picked the Muskoka River X as one of the Top 25 Ultimate Summer Adventures in Canada for 2013!  Get Out There and KEEN will be sending Brad Jennings and his partner Nick Schwass to compete in the C2 category of the MRX.  We look forward to Brad’s video race report.

MUSKOKA RIVER X SWAG
If you paddle 128km in 24hrs or less, haul your boat 19 times over 6km of portages, have no resupplies, and have no support team, you deserves to be proud of their accomplishment: You deserve some BLING!
Limited Edition North Face Bionic soft shell jacket with a 60,000 stitch embroidered MRX logo. ($150: medium/large available)

Limited Edition Salus Ungava PFD with custom MRX embroidered logo. ($100: all sizes)

Fully fitted custom pro-style baseball cap with MRX embroidered logo. ($25: s/m – l/xl)

There are limited quantities on all of the items, so, it’s first come – first service. Send an email to mike@muskokariverx.com detailing what you want and we will email an invoice back to you with payment instructions. Your items will be waiting for you at the registration desk on September 13th, 2013.

SMART PHONE RULES UPDATE FOR MUSKOKA RIVER X
As indicated within the Competitor Document teams are encouraged to carry cell phones: Cell phones are yet another safety device that may be of assistance in the event of an adverse event and teams needing to call Race Support for assistance.  Complicating this option is the issue that Smart Phones are GPS-enabled with software that would allow teams to pin-point their position during the race. Doing so goes against the spirit of the race; being that teams will navigate solely by map and compass. In response to the circumstance whereby a majority of individuals have Smart Phones, we will allow smart phones (i.e, iPhone/Blackberry/etc) to be accessible for emergency response needs only. Therefore, teams who wish to carry  their GPS-enabled phones for emergency purposes can do so by carrying them in a waterproof container, turned off.  Prior to the start of the race, the Race Directors will inspect the phones and place a seal over the container marking the phone as unopened.  Should the team need to use the phone for emergency purposes, then the seal can be broken and the phone can be accessed.  Phones will be checked upon arrival at the finish line to authenticate if the seal remains unopened or not.  Teams that have used their phones for non-emergency responses purposes may be subject to a time penalty.  We hope that this adjustment to the rules is a good compromise for those who are wanting to bring their phones. (Note: The competitor document will be updated in the near future to reflect this change.)

RENTALS & GEAR
Racing the Big East River X or the Muskoka River X?  Need something to paddle?  Missing a requirement off the Mandatory Gear List?  Algonquin Outfitters has everything you need to get to the start line.  Not sure whether to rent a Swift Winisk, Temagami or Keewadyin?  Contact Gord (info@algonquinoutfitters.com).  He will give you all the advice you need and make sure that you are properly outfitted for the 128kms of the MRX!

ACCOMMODATION
Need a place to stay over the Muskoka River X weekend?  We recommend the King William Inn.  It is only 600m from River Mill Park (registration & start line): No driving required!  Don’t wait until the last minute to reserve your room: Book early because September is “fall colour” time in Algonquin Park and Huntsville’s motels and hotels get booked up quickly with the bus tours.

SPOT TRACKER ~ Huge Sale!
Avantura has been selling and renting SPOT trackers worldwide since 2008.  Avantura is our supplier of SPOTS and our Live-Tracker map.  Now you can get your own SPOT.  Share your adventures with your friends and family and have piece of mind in the event that the unexpected happens.  Our friends at Avantura are offering you a “Muskoka River X Special”.

• SPOT-2
• Free Shipping (valued @ $15.00)
• Free Flotation Case (valued @ $19.00)
• Free 1 year tracking (if activated before June 1/13) (valued $49.99)
• $109.00

Contact Avantura directly at www.avantura.ca or aleks.gusev@gmail.com

Stay tune and keep watching our Blog and website for new and important information as we close in on race day.  We will be preparing some helpful details, such as an information package for spectators, as well as some other advice for racers.  Hope everyone is getting excited and training hard.  See you all in September! Cheers,  Mike and Rob

Competitor Document:  The Competitor Document for the Big East River X has been revised and uploaded to our website. Anyone interested in the Big East River X or who is planning to attend is strongly encouraged to review the document thoroughly: Printing a copy and bringing it with you is highly recommended. Details include registration and starting times/locations, as well as parking, maps, safety plans, mandatory gear, waivers, and more. In fact, reading this document is a requirement of signing the waiver, so, please do so before the event!

Registration:  We encourage teams to register on the Friday evening so you avoid a hectic Saturday morning: The first 25 teams who complete their on-site registration process will receive a fully laminated map of the course; all waterproofed and ready for action. After the first 25 are handed out, you’ll have to do the water proofing yourself.  We encourage you to have your waiver and medical form completed upon arrival; it’ll help you more through registration more smoothly.  Also, please come to the registration desk with your mandatory gear so you can get through gear check smoothly.  Note: If you are a member of the OMCKRA, don’t forget to bring your membership card!  This card will save you the $5 insurance fee.

MRX Salus Ungava Pre-Registration Draw:  Congratulations to Mike Leney of Waterloo (registered in the Family/Rec C2 event): Mike registered using our on-line registration system and will be stylin’ in one of our limited edition MRX Salus Ungava PFDs. Mike: You can pick up the jacket at registration. Limited Edition MRX Salus Ungava pfds and North Face soft shells will also be available at the registration desk should you want one for yourself; you will when you see them.

Where to Stay and Eat
If you’re looking for a place to stay, we strongly recommend the King William Inn. It’s the best “park & paddle” place to stay in town, being only 600m from the start/finish line. If you are looking for a place to stay away in a more secluded setting, we recommend the Tulip Inn. Located on the banks of the Big East River, the Tulip Inn is our half-way point for the 40km Marathon race. Links to both of these establishments are found on our webs site. If you are looking for a place to eat, look no further than the Cottage Waterfront Grill: The best river front patio in town.

Activities for Family and Friends
The weekend looks like it’s going to be great so don’t hesitate to bring your family/friends.  While you’re out paddling, Huntsville has a vibrant downtown with loads of things to do: Shopping, the arts, entertainment, the best in ice cream and chocolates, restaurants and foods for all tastes, an amazing playground for the kids, with hiking trails, athletic centre, and swimming all near by.  Or just hang out in River Mill Park and soak up the sun.  With 2 gyms all within walking distance of the Park, they can get a workout in before your team even gets back.  And don’t forget….Huntsville is the host of the 70.3 Iron Man and a world-class triathlon destination: This means amazing running, biking and swimming.  So, why not make it a weekend!

Also, while teams are out paddling the Big East River X,Algonquin Outfitters will be opening up their fleet of SUPs to those looking to try their hand at this great paddling sport.  And if you’re looking to restock you adventure gear, surf wear and water sports equipment, cloths for the active lifestyle, or even try out a new bike, see Will (the AO Store Manager).  He is sure to have something that you’re looking for, all at a great deal.  Tell him Mike sent you.

Our Sponsors
We would like to thank all of our sponsors who helped make this event happen. Check out our web site for all of our supporters. The Big East River X is a grass-roots event and without their support we never would have gotten off the ground. And if you have a moment, drop into Algonquin Outfitters and give a special THANKS to Rich, Greg, Will and the rest of the AO crew. AO has been a central partner in the Big East and we look forward to working with them as we move forward with the Muskoka River X, coming this September 2013.
See you all on Saturday! Mike and Rob.

Leading up to the 2013 Big East River X, join race director Mike Varieur as he paddles up the Big East River on Friday, May 24, 2013.

BIG EAST RIVER X – Saturday, June 15, 2013

The Big East River X is only 6 weeks away.  It will be a great day on the water for families and recreational paddlers enjoying some friendly competition along a safe and sheltered 9km route.  With plenty of categories, everyone is welcome including family teams, bantams, and adults.  Try your hand racing canoes, kayaks and even stand-up paddle-boards.

Calling all pro-boats, competitive stock boats, kayaks and SUPs!  The Big East River X will also be a great day for competitive marathon paddlers looking for a longer early season race.  At 40km, the Marathon race will have teams paddle from Huntsville into Lake Vernon up the Big East River.  Teams will make their way to the 20km point, just past the Hwy 11 bridge and return along an out-and-back route.   Located in the heart of Muskoka, this event starts and finishes in downtown Huntsville, Ontario.  Whether you’re looking to get into long distance paddle racing, training for the Muskoka River X, or wanting a new adventure, the marathon event is for you.

Both the 9km Family/Rec and the 40km Marathon events are sanctioned by the Ontario Marathon Canoe and Kayak Racing Association

In addition to a full day of paddling and friendly competition, your $30 registration covers all of the event permits, insurance, logistical support, first aid at the start/finish and 20km turn-around, and a post race BBQ at The Cottage Bar and Grill.

Please make sure that you check out our web site and review the Competitor Details and maps at https://muskokariverx.com/big-east-2013/

BIG EAST RIVER X Pre-Registration Incentive

Thinking of racing the Big East X? Don’t waiting until race-day.  Register now and get two chances to win!

Pre-Register using our on-line registration before May 26th and you are eligible to win 2 tickets to see THE SHEEPDOGS & THE SADIES at Huntsville’s Band on The Run ½ Marathon. Yes…we did say THE SHEEPDOGS and THE SADIES! Only at Ontario’s best new running-music festival. (http://bandontherun.ca/music-festival-lineup/).

Also, pre-register using our on-line registration before June 9th and you are eligible to win a limited edition Salus Ungava pfd with custom Muskoka River X logo embroidered on the back. Salsus…the best pdf on the market! (http://www.salusmarine.com/product/ungava.html).

That’s two great opportunities to win, just for registering before race-day.

 Visit https://www.onlineregistrations.ca/bigeastriverx/ and start your adventure.

CHANGE OF LOCATION: CANCELLED!

Please be advised that the previous posting alerting you of a change to the Staging Area for the Big East River X has been removed.  The Town of Huntsville is working to repair their town docks and thus we will be able to use the River Mill Park on Saturday, September 15th, 2013.  Our apologies for any confusion.

Please see the map below for location of the Staging Area and the post race BBQ.

MUSKOKA RIVER X WAITING LIST

Still dreaming of paddling the full 128km Muskoka River X?  We are holding a waiting list and teams are continuing to line up!  Some teams have still have not paid their registration fees; they have until the end of May 2013 to make payments in full.  If we do not receive their payment by the end of May 2013, they will forfeit their registration and we will start registering teams off the waiting list.  So, if you are currently a registered team and have not yet paid your registration fee, please make your payment before the end of May 2013 or risk loosing your spot to those who would love nothing else than to find their way to the start line.  If you are not already registered and want to paddle the might MRX, get your team on the waiting list so you are next in line when June 2013 rolls around.  Want to get on the wait list? Visit https://muskokariverx.com

MUSKOKA RIVER X Bling: Jackets, PFDs & Caps

If you’re planning to put in the effort to complete the 128km of the MRX, then you deserve to wear a bit of bling commemorating your achievement!  And we have just the thing…

The North Face Bionic soft-shell jacket with a 10×8 60,000 stitch full colour MRX logo embroidered on the back.  Color is black.  There is limited availability: We only have 21 men’s Large and 25 men’s Medium.  Once they’re gone, they’re gone: $150.00

Limited edition Salus Ungava pfd with full colour MRX logo embroidered on the back. Salsus…the best pdf on the market!  Limited availability:  $100.00

If you want a North Face Bionic, Salus Ungava or Pro-Style Cap email mike@muskokariverx.com with your specific request indicating which items you would like (jacket vs cap), the sizing, and quantity.  We will email you details on how to make a payment.  Jackets will go to those who complete their payment on a first-come/first-serve basis.  Caps will be ordered only for those who have completed their payment by July 12, 2013.  Your gear will be waiting for you at registration.

RENTALS & GEAR

Racing the Big East River X or the Muskoka River X?  Need something to paddle?  Missing a requirement off the Mandatory Gear List?  Algonquin Outfitters has everything you need to get to the start line.  Not sure whether to rent a Swift Winisk, Temagami or Keewadyin?  Contact Gord (info@algonquinoutfitters.com).  He will give you all the advice you need and make sure that you are properly outfitted for the 128kms of the MRX!

SPOT TRACKER ~ Huge Sale!

Avantura has been selling and renting SPOT trackers worldwide since 2008.  Avantura is our supplier of SPOTS and our Live-Tracker map.  Now you can get your own SPOT.  Share your adventures with your friends and family and have piece of mind in the event that the unexpected happens.  Our friends at Avantura are offering you a “Muskoka River X Special”.

• SPOT-2
• Free Shipping (valued @ $15.00)
• Free Flotation Case (valued @ $19.00)
• Free 1 year tracking (if activated before June 1/13) (valued $49.99)
• $109.00

Contact Avantura directly at www.avantura.ca or aleks.gusev@gmail.com

AND A SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING….

   We would like to send loads of thanks out to our Title Sponsor Alongquin Outfitters.  Rich Swift, owner of Algonquin Outfitters, and the rest of his crew Gregg, Will, Gord, and Chase have been huge supporters of the Big East X and Muskoka River X.  With AO’s long heritage of supporting wilderness, backcountry tripping, and with Rich being a long time canoe racer, AO is a natural partner for the Big East and MRX.  When you come through Muskoka, Algonquin Park, or Haliburton don’t miss the chance to check out Algonquin Outfitters.  Votes the best place to get gear by EXPLORE Magazine, Algonquin Outfitters have EVERYTHING you need for all your outdoor pursuits.

  Hungry in Huntsville? Check out the menu at The Cottage Bar and Grill.  With the best patio on the Muskoka River, it is the perfect place to watch the start and finish of the Big East and Muskoka Rive X races.  The Cottage will also be THE place to hang after the races are finished, as they will be hosting our post meals and awards.

  King William Inn, located only 600m from the start/finish line of the Big East X and Muskoka River X is THE place to rest your head in downtown Huntsville.  Being walking distance from the River Mill Park, it is the best park-and-race accommodation in town.  Freshly renovate and with drive-up room, the King William is a racers dream.  No need to haul gear up and down elevators.  Prep out of the back of your vehicle and leave it in the parking lot on race day.

 Looking for a place to stay in the natural surroundings of Huntsville, look no further than the Tulip Inn.   With the turn-around for the 40km Big East X marathon race located on their secluded sandy beach on the Big East River, the Tulip Inn is your other option for resting your head before and after the race.  All rooms are drive-up and they even have kitchenettes.  Only a 5 min drive from the start-finish line.

  Need a personal flotation device?  You will for the Big East X and Muskoka River X.  Check of the full line of Salus marine wear.  There is a Salus model for everyone’s paddling needs: The BEST in personal flotation.  Made in Canada and available at Algonquin Outfitters!

  Hand-crafted paddles in the heart of Muskoka!  Get yours at Algonquin Outfitters!  We can’t wait to see the MRX paddle trophies that Mike from Bradger will be making.  If you manage to win your MRX category, you will get your name engraved into one of these beauties and hung on the wall of AO’s Huntsville store for years to come.  You’ll be a legend!

  He may not be a doctor but he is a magician:  When you haven’t been kind to your boat, John can do miracles.  John is the guy in Muskoka that major rental fleets go to for repairs.  From composites to canvas, John will bring your boat back to life.  Trust me…..

In support of