BoatLaunch560Despite wet weather there was plenty of action at the County Road 40 access point for the annual River Run.

Hub Staff

Despite wet weather and some heavy downpours on Sunday, May 21, hundreds gathered at several access points along the Saugeen River to fulfill the long standing May long weekend tradition, the May 2-4 River Run.

Dozens of makeshift rafts of varying shapes and sizes, canoes, kayaks and inflatables could be seen drifting down river carrying friends and family members as they enjoyed their time on the water, ignoring the precipitation that Mother Nature had in store.

Along with their paddles, life jackets and provisions, this year’s paddlers came armed with rain jackets, umbrellas and tarps, determined to make the most of their day.

Launch560With a little help from a dozen or so friends, raft builders Andrew Cation, Zach Cushner and Summer Beckett, all of Port Elgin, launched one of the larger rafts of the day.

Friends560From left, friends Rob Starrs, Kristina Mountain, Mike Bonhert and Amy Hepburn were ready to drift down the river on a floating picnic table.

Carry560It took the efforts of all the riders from some of the larger rafts to carry their vessels down to the water’s edge.

Girls560It was girl power all the way as this group of Saugeen Shores partricipants prepared to launch their vessel.

Flamingo560Boats and rafts of all sorts could be found on the Saugeen River May 21. Even a large pink flamingo was spotted.

Pirates560Flying the Jolly Roger, these pirates were enjoying their day floating down the Saugeen River.

Boats560Dozens of boats and hundreds or riders floated down the Saugeen River May 21 as part of the annual River Run.