Freeport's Cow Meadow Park hosts annual canoe races, celebrating community spirit

The annual canoe races at Cow Meadow Park in Freeport proved to be a cherished community event, offering residents a delightful day of family and friendly fun on the water.

Held on Sunday, Aug. 4, this year’s races drew a large crowd of participants and spectators, eager to engage in a tradition that dates back several decades.

The races began at 10 a.m. and continued until 2 p.m., with participants of all ages and skill levels taking to the water.

The event was a collaborative effort sponsored by the Freeport Police Athletic League, the Village of Freeport, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Maryanne Endo, whose husband was a member of the chamber before he passed, played a central role in organizing the races.

“The determination and smilers were so evident on the faces of the youngsters, olders, girls, boys, men, women, and even all the volunteers!” said Endo over message in regards to the race. “The pressure was on to best their performance or other’s (performances)!”

Over the years, the event has evolved, but its core mission of fostering community spirit has remained unchanged.

Originally held along the Nautical Mile behind the Point Lookout restaurant, the event now takes place at Cow Meadow Park. This change has made the event more accessible and safer for participants.

This inclusivity extended to all types of participants, from novices to more experienced paddlers, with races tailored to suit all levels.

The canoes were provided by Bob’s Canoe Rentals, ensuring that participants had everything they needed for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Safety was a top priority, with life jackets provided and safety measures in place to ensure a secure environment for all participants.

The event followed a similar event on Tuesday evening, wherein canoe races were held in Freeport/Baldwin’s Milburn boat basin for special need’s athletes. They teamed up with members of Freeport electric, Police, the Fire Department, and Rescue Squad employees to vie for medals.

Sunday’s event also featured medals for the winners, fostering a sense of achievement and pride among the racers.

All in all, August 4 at Cow Meadow Park was a day of fun, camaraderie, and healthy competition on the water.