Above: wearing their yellow numbered bibs, a team of racers nervously awaits the start of their event. Left: Number 42 wears a broad smile at the conclusion of his team’s race. Were they the first to finish in their event? Who cares, they didn’t tip and that’s always a good feeling. Photos courtesy of Vi Nelson
While the weather was iffy to start, it cleared up just in time on July 17 for several hundred people to attend and cheer at the 2019 Gunflint Trail Canoe Races that benefited the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department (GTVFD). This was the 42nd year for the event and a sizable sum was raised.
The funds will be used to support the volunteer EMTs, EMRs, fire trucks, ambulances and three fire halls along the Trail. “We greatly appreciate the hard work and contributions of the many volunteers and visitors that help us improve the fire department and rescue squad every year,” said GTVFD Chief Jim Morrison,
The 17 different canoe races for multiple ages and abilities provided the action the crowd hoped for and they cheered on their favorites. Many Gunflint Trail resorts and outfitters participated, making for a lively competition. The ever-popular gunnel-pumping races were so popular two heats were needed for both the men and women racers.
The food tent, offering family-friendly picnic fare, was sold out before the last race. Another sell-out was the snappy souvenir T-shirt, this year in a trendy mustard shade, and worn by the many volunteers.
The silent auction featured many handmade items. The many afghans and blankets, carvings, birdhouses, photos and paintings of woodland animals and landscapes, along with restaurant and other cash offerings brought out generous bidders. The live auction offered handmade benches, tables and chairs, and a special birch-bark bowl made in the ’70s by first-nation member Charlie Cook of Gunflint Lake.
Last but not least, Don DuCarme of Hudson, Wis., held the lucky $5 raffle ticket that won the Current Designs Solara 120 kayak.
An active steering committee of Gunflint Trail residents organized the Gunflint Trail Canoe Races. Visit Cook County and WTIPNorth Shore Radio, broadcasting live from the races, also helped make the event such a success this year. Steering committee members included Bob Baker Sr., John and Mindy Fredrickson, owners of Gunflint Lodge; Arden Byers, Carol Backstrom, Ruth Saunders, Vi Nelson, Sally and Michael Valentini, Fred and Fran Smith.
As this year’s overall chairman, Bob Baker concluded, “Our Canoe Races tell a real success story of how our Gunflint Trail community works together to make living in the wilderness an even better experience for residents and visitors alike.”
Leave a Reply