Fifteen teams of 22 competed in the Raquette River Dragon Boat Festival held at Postwood Park, Hannawa Falls July 16. “Ichor Life Sciences,” in front, and “Clarkson Hockey,” teams launch their boats in preparation of the race. Clarkson Hockey won first place, and Ichor took second in the competition. Scroll down for more photos. NCNow photo
BY CHERYL SHUMWAY
North Country This Week
HANNAWA FALLS — Fifteen dragon boats, each holding 20 paddlers, a drummer and steerer, moved together in sync with the drumbeats at Postwood Park on July 16.
A large crowd cheered on the boats competing in the second year of the The Raquette River Dragon Boat Festival.
The event, organized by Clarkson University Health Services Program, in conjunction with Potsdam Town Recreation, raises money to support mission trips, health initiatives and health education in St. Lawrence County.
“Last year we raised $13,000. We are hoping for $15,000 this year,” said Chris LaPoint, event organizer and Assistant Clinical Professor of Clarkson University’s Physician Assistant Program.
“The money raised will fund new health initiatives,” said LaPoint. “Last year we did a fitness program, Girls on the Run,” for third and fourth grade girls. We are looking to add a yoga and mindfulness program in schools this year,” he said. To make a donation to a team or individual, visit: sites.clarkson.edu/dragon-boat/registration
“This event teaches Clarkson Health Science students how to organize events and it gives them something fun to do,” said LaPoint. “It also helps promote local businesses and helps Postwood Park grow,” LaPoint said.
First place winners were “Clarkson Hockey”, a combined men’s and women’s team. Second place went to Ichor Life Sciences, a biotechnology company partnering with Clarkson University. St. Lawrence Valley Paddlers’ “Paddle to the Medal” team took third, and Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s “Stroke Protocol” took fourth…
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