Get your kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards ready; the New York Marine Rescue Center is hosting their 12th annual Paddle Battle LI event on Saturday, July 26 on the Peconic River in Riverhead. Race proceeds go directly to the nonprofit New York Marine Rescue Center to help save endangered sea turtles.
Two races are on the schedule: a recreational race spanning 2.5 miles designed for the novice paddler, and a competitive race of 5 miles for more experienced paddlers; both races start at 9:15 a.m. There’s also a Casual Paddle, which is open for anyone to get out on the water and enjoy themselves while raising money for a good cause. The three events kick off from 40 McDermott Avenue on the Peconic Riverfront.
The New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC), which is housed at the Long Island Aquarium, is the only marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation center in New York State. NYMRC’s mission is to preserve and protect the marine environment through conservation efforts, including rescue, rehabilitation, education and research.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Paddle Battle and all who come out and support it each year,” says Maxine Montello, executive director of NYMRC. “This event is more than just a day on the water — it brings in vital funds that go directly towards our rescue and rehabilitation efforts for sea turtles in New York waters. These contributions make a real difference in our ability to respond to strandings and provide high-quality care for every animal we treat.”
NYMRC is the region’s primary responder for sick or injured seals, sea turtles, dolphins, porpoises and small-toothed whales. They maintain a 24-hour hotline (631-369-9829) to report stranded, sick or injured marine life. The Center has rescued more than 3,900 animals since it was started in 1996.
The four species of sea turtles that inhabit New York’s waters are the Atlantic green sea turtle, Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, and the loggerhead sea turtle. The number one reason for strandings in New York is cold stunning, although boat strikes, entanglement and hook ingestion are often encountered as well.
Kayaks and canoes are available to rent for the race for $40, and all participants must wear personal flotation devices. In the event of severe weather, the race will be held on Sunday, July 27.
A Paddle Battle Team Challenge, composed of teams of four competitors each, will compete for the Team Challenge trophy. Registration options and prices vary, so check the event website to sign up.
For more information about NYMRC and to donate if you can’t attend the race, look here.
