Over eighty years ago, Kipona began as a canoe race along Harrisburg’s waterfront. The tradition continues in honor of Dale Zeiders, the last surviving boathouse owner from the early days of Kipona.

The races were part of the Kipona celebration for many years and then experienced a long hiatus.

In 1992 the Kipona Canoe Races were resurrected due the efforts of Mr. Richard Reese, eight-time Kipona High Point Trophy Winner, and are an exciting part of the current Kipona celebration.

In the fall of 2001 the City of Harrisburg and Mayor Stephen Reed honored Mr. Reese in a ceremony held at the City Government Center for his contributions and commitment to the races by officially naming the races “The Dick Reese Kipona Canoe Classic.”

Kipona Canoe Classic sponsors include The Canoe Club of Greater Harrisburg, The City of Harrisburg , Mr. Richard Reese, and Wildware Back Country.