There is a long standing annual canoe regatta in my town and it is called “The River Rat Race”. Apparently many years ago two drunks got the clever idea of racing from one town to another and The River Rat Race was born. It has grown over the years to a large charity event sponsored by the local Lions Club. Cool.
The town is getting ready for the race but it’s going to be a little different this year. The starting point for the race is a bridge which is under construction. Bummer. There should be an asterisk in the history books.
At any rate, the beginning of the race is something to see on a normal start. Over 100 canoes both amateur and professionals jockey in a predetermined order above the bridge until the race starts. Once the starter’s gun goes off then the fun starts. Under the bridge they go into the fast water and making a turn they get turned sideways all bunched up and sometimes tip over into wicked cold water. Brrrr! All the while trying to negotiate their position in the race. Now you have to understand, you are watching total amateurs dressed in crazy costumes mixed in with professionals who travel a circuit that covers several states and 10- 20 races. A total state of chaos ensues and away they go!
This year however, canoes will be waiting to start the race below the bridge in the faster and more turbulent water. It will make for a very interesting beginning, but I think the river rescue personnel are going to have their hands full. Because of the bridge construction, the area that spectators have to view the start of the race is greatly diminished. I do hope that does not deter people from participating in the event either as racers or spectators. It is such a fun time, and the more the merrier.
Spectators scramble from the start and try to get to the finish line in the next town before the end of the race. It is very strategic maneuvering and planning that gets to the finish line on time. Isn’t it funny there just happens to be a couple of bars where the finish line is. If you are lucky you have enough time to grab a cocktail and see the finish. It is quite the race amongst spectators as well. A totally crazy Day!
Local non-profit groups line the street with vending carts selling everything from food to face painting and souvenirs. Everyone wanders about in a family friendly carnival-like atmosphere. It is the first chance most people get to do anything fun after a long New England winter, so it is quite a welcome chance to shake off cabin fever. The weather is always unpredictable, but the cold and the rain have never affected the energy of the crowd or the canoers. Around here it’s a welcome sign of spring.
I guess why I’m sharing this with everyone is that it is such a great way to promote the Lions Club charity. Another thing this annual event does is that the entire populations of both towns unite in the single tradition of ‘Rat Day’. It’s always great where there are so many people participating in a common interest. This is a great idea to use to market your business. Start sponsoring an annual event, if possible between two towns and draw them in.
Whatever unique business you may have the idea of a charity event is always a good way to find what is really needed. How can you be of benefit to others. Through Charity. To give without want is the only way to true abundance in life. Listen to what the people are saying. Be of benefit and help them. Charity draws the best out of people. Pick a charity and get going.
