Paddlepalooza 2016

Let the fun and frivolity flow

The City of Auburn Hills is partnering with the City of Rochester Hills on Paddlepalooza 2016, an annual canoe/kayak race and adventure river paddle down the Clinton River on Saturday, June 4. Participants will launch their watercraft at 8:30 a.m. from the banks of Riverside Park (corner of Auburn and Squirrel Roads in downtown Auburn Hills) and finish at River Crest Banquet Center (900 West Avon Road in Rochester Hills).

In 2013, the Mayor’s Cup award was added to encourage some friendly competition between the two cities

“Auburn Hills is proud to be defending the Mayor’s Cup title this year, and we are hoping for a repeat win.  I’m challenging Mayor Barnett to bring his “A” game this year.  It is always a nice friendly competition with our great neighbors in Rochester Hills” said Auburn Hills Mayor Kevin McDaniel. “Paddlepalooza has become one of my favorite community events of the summer; there is no better way to experience the Clinton River.”

Rochester Hills is pleased to partner with Auburn Hills on this action-packed event

“One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Rochester Hills is through the Clinton River. Paddling provides a different way to experience our communities that are both diverse and exciting,” states Mayor Bryan K. Barnett. “We look forward to winning the Mayor’s Cup this year and regaining our status as champions.”

The 2016 event offers three paddling activities to choose from: an eight-mile single person kayak race; an eight-mile, two-person canoe race to River Crest; or an eight-mile adventure river paddle. The races and river paddle all conclude near the patio at the River Crest Banquet Center overlooking the river where lunch will be served and awards presented from 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for each race class, and participants will receive lunch and an event shirt.

“Paddlepalooza is a high energy event that keeps people coming back,” said Brian Marzolf, Auburn Hills Parks & Recreation Director. “The Clinton River adds to the sense of community by connecting our two cities and neighborhoods, and improves the quality of life for residents and visitors.”

The registration fee is $20, and participants are strongly encouraged to preregister. The event is not recommended for beginner paddlers because the river can be considered a difficult Class III rating at certain times of the year. Participants must be at least 12 years of age and all paddlers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Personal flotation devices are required. The rain date is June 18.

Event rules as well as details about what to wear, canoe and kayak rentals, parking and shuttle service, and registration and waiver forms are available at www.auburnhills.org, www.rochesterhills.org or by calling the Auburn Hills Parks & Recreation Department at 248-370-9353.