Dick Reese Kipona Canoe Races
Labor Day, Monday, September 3, 2018 at Riverfront Park, Harrisburg, PA
Held annually on the Monday of Labor Day Weekend, the Dick Reese Kipona Canoe Races are the only canoe races of their kind, a true measure of paddling skill with lots of fun thrown in as well! This is a true “citizen’s race” where everyone has a chance to participate, whether you are a regular paddler or not.
All canoe races are run in identical 17-foot touring canoes, using straight-shaft paddles. Canoes, paddles, and life-jackets are provided by CCGH. Registration information is available here.
In 1916, 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.
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 by officially naming the races “The Dick Reese Kipona Canoe Races” for his contributions and commitment to the races.
In 2018, the Dick Reese Kipona Canoe Races will benefit Harrisburg Inspiring Connections Outdoors, a program to provide outdoor experiences to Harrisburg youth and teens which is affiliated with the Sierra Club Foundation.
Sponsors of the event in 2017 included CCGH, the late Mr. Richard Reese (1929-2016), the City of Harrisburg, Davis Law, Susquehanna River Trail Association, Peachtree Restaurant & Lounge, Pennsy Supply, Smigel Anderson & Sacks LLP, and the Susquehanna Single Malt Scotch Club.
