Thank you for your interest in this year’s “Row for the Gold” canoe race benefiting  Special Olympics Virginia. Since it began, the event has raised over $20,000 for the local and state Special Olympics. With the caring and dedication of people like you, we expect this to be another great year . To learn more about Special Olympics Virginia and the impact it makes in the community, visit their website at www.specialolympicsva.org .

Whether you're a great canoer, or this is your first time, you will still enjoy being part of the event. Some teams are in it to win it and row at full speed, while others row leisurely down the beautiful Shenandoah River and enjoy the scenery.  Massanutten River Adventures brings all of our supplies (canoes, oars, life jackets) and gives rowing instructions and tips on navigating the river before we take off. 

Each canoe team will consist of 2 rowers. Teams are expected to raise money for your boat. A good amount to shoot for is a minimum is $200 per boat. If you miss that amount, you will still be able to row, but remember--there is a prize for the team who raises the most money for the event. There are many ways to raise money for your team. Some people sell baked goods at work, get a company to sponsor them, or other creative things. The most common (and quickest way) to raise money is through pledges. Ask friends, family, co-workers, etc. to sponsor you in the race through a donation. Whether you get 10 people to pledge $20 each or 100 people to pledge $2.00 each is up to you. Once I hear from you, I will send you a packet with all of the forms you will need to help you with your fundraising.

At the finish line, we will have some of our local Special Olympics athletes to cheer you on as you finish the race. Once all boats are in (usually around 4pm), we will have an awards ceremony for the 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place rowers, as well as prizes awarded to the teams who raise the most money for the event.  Special Olympics athletes will be awarding the prizes to you. After the ceremony, we will have a picnic at the landing with the athletes and all canoe participants and their families. We are usually done by 6pm.

Kelly Truxell -- organizer