American Legion's 3rd Annual Homemade Raft Race

On Saturday August 5th, 2017 the American Legion Post 1479 held their 3rd Annual Homemade Raft Race. The day started with registration beginning at 11 am, at the old cheese factory area with a $10 registration fee to participate. Rafts had to be homemade with no motors.

The homemade rafts were either racers or floaters, the racers had to have a team of 4 individuals 21 or over. There were several pit stops along the river with games for the teams to play. There was an adult drink provided at registration and at the various stops to everyone participating, so no minors were allowed to participate.

There was no shortage of spectators; the St. Regis river channel was filled with homemade rafts, kayaks, pontoons and boats. By the time the racers finished all the their pit stops and reached their final destination at Fred Lazore's, Fred offered everyone participating a BBQ chicken dinner.

There were prizes for first place, second place and a prize for the best homemade raft with everyone being very creative in their design, although not all chose to participate in the racing event.

It turned out to be a great day with no accidents, thanks to the Hogansburg Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department for being on standby in their fan boat just in case any accidents occurred. There were also some kind community members on their boats helping out the individuals on their rafts. Some were being towed to the finish line by a boat, while others just drifted along enjoying the sun. The teams that were racing made it through all the pit stops and to the finish line way ahead of everyone else. The event had a great turnout and everyone who participated had a great time and look forward to next year's Legion's Homemade Raft Race.