On Saturday, July 25, 66 kayakers and four paddle boarders enjoyed a glorious morning of family fun in the 11th annual Port Washington–Manhasset Bay Kayak Run. Cosponsored by the Community Chest of Port Washington and the Town of North Hempstead, with major assistance from Atlantic Outfitters and the North Shore Kayak Club, the Kayak Run was once again sponsored by the Peter & Jeri Dejana Family Foundation.
Participants of all ages enjoyed the beauty of Manhasset Bay as they launched their boats from the Town Dock, Manorhaven Beach and other locations around the bay to complete the five-plus mile loop.
Dr. Joel Ziev, Community Chest board member and Kayak Run codirector, said, “the Kayak Run is not a race; it is a great way for novices and experienced kayakers alike to get out on Manhasset Bay. Beginners can feel safe kayaking longer distances knowing that assistance is always nearby. The town’s bay constable patrol boats and Port’s fire boat were terrific, keeping a watchful eye as participants completed the course. We also had wonderful volunteers who provided encouragement from land as the kayakers passed each checkpoint.” Passing the checkpoints along the way qualified the kayakers for raffle prizes.
Grand prize winners Mark and Amy Frankel from Great Neck won a brand new kayak. Other raffle prizes included fishing tackle and boating gear donated by John Thompson of Atlantic Outfitters.
The proceeds of $5,000 from the Port Washington-Manhasset Bay Kayak Run benefit the Community Chest’s 26 grantee organizations serving Port Washington residents.
Julie Meer Harnick is the executive director of the Community Chest of Port Washington.
