On Saturday, May 9, twenty-six kayaks set out on the third annual Salt Springs Classic Kayak Race and Fun Paddle.  The 5+ mile race began at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park at Old Post Road and ended at Sims Park, New Port Richey at the site of the Cotee River Seafood Festival.   The weather was beautiful, the water was calm and the competition was tough.  First to cross the finish line was Brent Postma with a time of 47 minutes and 34 seconds, 6 minutes and 16 seconds better than his 2008 winning time.  Steve Lasorsa, Mark Buga and Ed Lawlor, all under a one-hour time, followed him.  

New to the race was a category for tandem kayaks.  Coming in first in this new division were Mike and Luana Moran with a time of 53 minutes, 24 seconds.  Closely behind were Corey Denninger and Nick Makris, only 2 seconds back.  Third place went to Ken and Shaun Walker.   Fourth place went to the mother and son team of Felicia and Peyton Webb.  This race event participation was Peyton’s Mother’s Day gift to his mom.  Great idea!

The fun paddle allowed all who kayaked a chance to enjoy some fun time on the water.  Not only people participated.  Wyatt Brewer even paddled with his 2 pooches, as they relaxed under their doggie canopy.   Bringing in the rear of the group were Robert Bacon, Louise Layton and Sylvia Wilson who were not the least concerned to be last.  After all, they signed up for a “fun” paddle and that’s exactly what they had.