If you’re looking for an adventure of white water and fierce rapids, then the Dawson County Jaycees Inaugural Etowah River Canoe race may not be for you.

“This is going to be a fun day that anyone who can operate a kayak can participate in,” said event organizer David McKee.

Proceeds from the Aug. 7 race, which begins at River Park on Hwy. 9 South and ends about six miles down stream on Kelly Bridge Road, benefit the Dawson County Senior Center’s elevator fund.

“We are in so much need for an elevator here,” said Senior Center Director Margie Weaver. “Right now, we’re having to drive some of our seniors to the lower floor if they want to participate in some of our activities, because they’re not able to walk down the stairs.”

The race will feature both competitive solo and tandem classes for both canoe and kayaks, as well as a free float, non-competitve family class. 

All competitive class participants will receive a T-shirt to commemorate the event. Awards will be given to the top racers.

Registration is currently underway and will continue through the morning of the race, with the first class of racers launching at 9:30 a.m.

Most participants will be able to complete the race in between three to four hours. Six checkpoints will be set up along the trip for safety purposes.

“There will also be a cookout at the finish line for all participants, and we’re providing shuttle service back to River Park,” McKee said.

Entrance fees are $30 per person for each competitive class and $20 per boat for the family class.

Local outfitters will be at River Park the morning of the race for those who need to rent boats.

For more information, call David McKee at (706) 344-3604, or e-mail dmckee@dawsoncounty.org.