Avenue A will host its fourth annual Blindfolded Boat Race on Norway Pond on June 8, with a rain date of June 9.
The fundraiser features two-person canoe teams navigating a loop course from the Norway Pond beach. One paddler is blindfolded while the other provides directions from the back of the canoe. Proceeds support Avenue A youth programs.
The free, family-friendly event will include a cookout hosted by Hancock Congregational Church, face painting by Avenue A teens and baked goods available by donation. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and cheer on the racers.
Thirty teams are registered to compete this year, including defending Paddle-Off champions the Bennington VFW Brown Knights. Teams will compete for “Golden Paddles” in categories including Paddle-Off Winner and Best Costume/Boat Décor.
The race also marks the launch of Avenue A’s NH Gives campaign, which runs June 9-10 and aims to raise $20,000 for youth programming.
Avenue A, a program of The Grapevine Family & Community Resource Center in Antrim, serves teens ages 11 to 19 throughout the ConVal region and surrounding communities.