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3rd Annual Nissequogue River Regatta Committee
by Pat Biancaniello
In a world filled with chaos and nastiness there is something satisfying in knowing that the younger generation will step up to the plate in support of their community. It is even more satisfying when those kids are from your town. Earlier this year a group of Kings Park teens committed to raising funds for the Nissequogue River Regatta to showcase the Nissequogue River State Park. This is the third group of Kings Park teens who have volunteered to run this event which began in 2016. This year’s regatta has three co-presidents Emily Dinan, Caleigh Lynch and Juliana Quigley. John McQuaid, president of the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation, provides guidance to the teens but is hands off when it comes to their decision making.
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Competitive participants 2016Early in March the teens came together as part of the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s student board and began planning the 3rd Nissequogue River Regatta. A tremendous undertaking which involved selecting a date, checking tides, filing permits, negotiating costs for kayak and canoe rentals, T-Shirts and flyers, soliciting sponsors and donations, marketing and advertising, planning a barbecue, purchasing supplies and of course recruiting participants.
On Saturday, August 11th (raindate Sunday, August 12th) they will see their efforts become reality.
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Kayaking on the Nissequogue River Aug.6thWeather permitting at 11a.m. the 3rd Nissequogue River Regatta will commence and participants in kayaks, canoes and paddle boards will begin a much anticipated friendly trip around a 5 mile course and for the more experienced 10 mile course. Although registration is required participants may rent a kayak/canoe or bring their own. Participants can be as competitive or leisurely as they like. Upon completion of the race there will be food and music.
With months of planning behind them the student board is focused on making this a successful event that reflects their passion for the park that is in their hometown.
Nissequogue River State Park is located at 799 Saint Johnland Road in Kings Park. The race is sponsored by the Reichert Family, owners of IGAs in Fort Salonga and E.Northport.
Friday, August 10th is the last day to register for the Regatta.