Portage power on the Manasquan!

An early crew of paddlers prepares their boats and gear at Howell Park Golf Course before the start of the 40th Manasquan River Canoe & Kayak Race, May 8, 2010. 

Probably best described as a kayak-assisted hike, the Manasquan River Canoe & Kayak Race was incredibly challenging. Although the course was less than 6 miles, there were many portages — I stopped counting after six — and obstacles. I witnessed at least one paddler flip his boat and others taking in serious amounts of water.

 Paddlers of varying skill sets negotiated the course in roughly 1-3 hours. Unofficially, the top time for kayak solo was around 1:13. I placed second in that category at 1:26 (stoked!) Official results have not been posted yet by the crew at Monmouth County Parks, but those folks put on a great event. Special thanks to Ryan Kimble, who managed to sneak me in for a super late registration.

A coffee-colored stretch of the Manasquan at the start of the race.