Paddle for Life

The Race

The First Annual Allegheny-Clarion Valley River Classic is an amateur canoe and kayak race open to all ages and skill levels. The event takes place on the central Allegheny River through the historic Allegheny-Clarion Valley.

The morning race will follow an 8.2 mile down river course, with a challenging up river loop, from Emlenton to to Parker, Pennsylvania. This will be a USCA event.
The afternoon races will follow a 3 mile down river course from Foxburg to Parker.

All participants receive a free T-Shirt and raffle ticket.
All proceeds go to benefit the local chapter of the American Cancer Society.

GENERAL RULES FOR ALL USCA SANCTIONED RACES

A. Competitor Information
1. Paddlers are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner at all times.
2. Competitors waive all rights and claims against the USCA and its representatives.
3. Advertising in USCA races: Sponsorship shall be allowed and their advertising on boats shall be allowed in USCA races.
4. Amateur Rules: There is no distinction in the USCA between amateurs and professionals, and either person by any organizations standard may compete in and win a USCA National Championship.
5. Did Not Finish (DNF): All competitors who quit a race for any reason before the finish line must report to the race sponsor or his representatives as soon as possible.

B. Equipment and Assistance
1. Personal Flotation Devices (PFD): Each competitor must have in his or her possession during the entire race and easily accessible, a PFD approved by either the U.S. Coast Guard or the state in which the race is being held, if said state has specific rules. All youth paddlers 14 years of age and younger are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD at all times during any race. If water conditions arrant, the race sponsor may require PFD's to be worn by all competitors or to be readily and easily accessible. When PFD's are required to be worn, they must be worn as the manufacturer designed them to be worn. New 2003: All competitors in juvenile and younger events must wear life jackets regardless of age. Local/state regulations that are stricter than USCA will continue to prevail. The rules regarding PFD's apply to all events at the USCA races including Downriver and ICF Marathon kayaks.
2. Paddles: Any number of single blade paddles of any material and size may be in the canoes. A competitor may use only one paddle at a time. Any number of double bladed paddles may be used in kayaks only. In the event that a double bladed paddle is broken, a competitor may finish with the broken paddle.
3. Water Removal: The competitors will be allowed to turn their canoe or kayak upside down to remove water from it. Non-mechanical bailers (i.e. scoop bailers or sponges) or any type of person-powered (passive) bailer, pump, or siphon may be used in all USCA canoes and kayaks.
4. Weights and Flotation may be added to canoes or kayaks in order to meet requirements of minimum weight and buoyancy. The materials used may be at the discretion of the competitor. All weights and flotation must be securely fastened or permanently built into the canoe or kayak. Securely Fastened: When a canoe or kayak is turned upside down or submerged, the weight or flotation must stay in place.
5. Outside Assistance: Food, drink, clothing, paddles, and equipment other than canoes may be given to the competitors by spectators (or other competitors) as long as there is no physical help (in the way of forward motion) or interference with the other paddlers. Medical help, in case of sickness or injury, may be given to the competitors but interference with other paddlers should be kept to a minimum.
6. One whistle must be carried in each boat, either securely affixed to a life vest or the boat in a manner which allows quick access in a personal emergency.