Annual Canoe to the Sea Marathon

The Shubenacadie Canal and the seven lakes in this system, have been the venue for the Canoe to the Sea marathon canoe race since 1989.

Several active canoe/kayak clubs on these lakes play host to the visiting participants, much as they did during the 2000 Marathon Canoe World Championships on the system. As well, the Shubenacadie Canal Commission's Fairbanks Centre, located right on the course itself, provides VIP and awards ceremony venues, as well as the Bar-B-Q.

The annual race features an early morning start to avoid the head winds of later in the day. To compete the route, paddlers must navigate the portages through well marked parkland to a final sprint for the finish at the Banook Canoe Club.

For the most part, the lakes are deep and calm. The longest portage is 400 m. around two old locks in the narrow canal between Lake MicMac and Lake Charles. This feature should add to the spectators' attraction to the event. No fast or dangerous water will be encountered nor will there be any navigational hazards.

There will also be a Family Fun race through the "Deep Cut" and around Lake Charles. This is for family groups (parents, kids, pets, etc.) in recreational style canoes. All participants are welcomed to the Bar-B-Q and prize party afterwards.