The Stonycreek Rendezvous will begin April 25th at the Greenhouse Park, the site of the proposed Whitewater course. Greenhouse Park is in Tire Hill approximately 5 miles from Johnstown, PA. Local boaters and American Whitewater are continuously working to increase the potential of the Stonycreek. Progress is being made! There is a possibility of scheduled whitewater releases on the Stonycreek by late 2004, and a whitewater park is currently in the permitting stages. We are optimistic that it will be ready for construction by late summer 2003! However, it is important that the whitewater community make a strong showing this year to remind politicians and local authorities of our strong presence and the benefits of whitewater.
As usual, water willing, there will be seven runs within 20 minutes of the event site, with difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced. Camping, food and entertainment will all be available at the event site.
Friday will begin with a downriver race. The first three finishers will be awarded Stony Rock Trophies and prizes donated by Rocky Mountain Kayak. The evening entertainment will follow. The Paint Creek Pickers will get us off to a great start performing all your favorite bluegrass toons.
Saturday will begin with a flatwater canoe race on the Quemahoning Dam. This is the second year for this race. Last year this change was embraced by the open boaters and was a success. All entries will receive an event T-shirt and the top three places in each class will be presented with Stony Rock Trophies. For the playboaters we will be moving the rodeo to Saturday afternoon. This rodeo is for friendly competition. The top three places in each class (beginner, intermediate and expert) will also be presented with Stony rock trophies and a free event T-shirt! If you have any mountain bikers in your group, bring them along too. LHORBA will be leading various rides (beginner to advanced) on newly constructed trails at a nearby park.
The main event will be complete with vendors, silent auction, live entertainment by Grinning Mob and food. Vendors will be set up for the party on Saturday night to satisfy all your gear needs. The silent auction will include items such as boats, gear, a handmade cedar canoe table (really cool!) and more. Food will be provided by the Ligonier Tavern (very good) and will be available at the site from Friday evening to Sunday lunch.
Raft trips will be available on Saturday and Sunday for the less experienced boaters in your group. Pre-registration for the raft trip is required.
Please see the Benscreek Canoe Club website www.benscreekcanoeclub.com for maps, detailed creek descriptions, sponsors, lodging options, rafting information, water levels and updated Rendezvous information.