Philippe Morin
Northern News Services
Monday, June 18, 2007

ARCTIC RED RIVER - Do you have the strength to paddle a canoe at top speed on the Mackenzie River?

If so, you might consider calling Tsiigehtchic's James Cardinal.

He said the hamlet is planning a big canoe race for Aug. 17, 18 and 19.

A new group called the Mackenzie River Recreation Society, which is comprised of community volunteers, is planning the event.

Cardinal said the hamlet owns a few freighter canoes, which have not been used in a few years.

The canoes can seat six and will be used for the race.

Of course, they will first be checked for leaks.

"We just got together and said 'let's do something with those canoes that haven't been used in umpteen years," he said.

Cardinal added there would also be prizes for winners.

This year's race is set to coincide with a meeting of the Gwich'in Tribal Council, which happens in the hamlet this August.