Environmental Group To Host 2-Mile Paddle Race In Suffolk

MASTIC BEACH, NY — Some have tried it, and won, but there was never any official results until now.

The Mastic Beach Conservancy will host the inaugural two-mile "Race the Narrows" paddle race — open to all paddle craft, including kayaks, canoes, and SUPs — on July 15 with proceeds to go toward the organization's mission. The Mastic Beach Conservancy works to preserve the over six miles of publicly-accessible waterfront parkland around the Mastic Beach Peninsula with various events such as clean-ups and fundraisers.

"Race the Narrows" will take racers 14 years old and up through two miles of Mastic Beach waterfront, starting at Marina 5 and ending at Bayview Park. Prizes will be awarded for a variety of entries, including the best times and best sea creature costume.

After the paddle race, the Mastic Beach Conservancy will hold its annual block party, "Bash by the Bay," with food, music, and a variety of family-friendly activities at Bayview Park.

The event will run rain or shine from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Maura Spery, president of the Mastic Beach Conservancy, called the block party, which has been held the last two years, and "amazing" event.

"We want to make 'Race the Narrows' and 'Bash by the Bay' a true celebration of our community, where people of all ages can participate and get an even better appreciation for our amazing waterways," she said. "What better way than a regatta of self-propelled watercraft to showcase the amazing waterways we have right here in Mastic Beach? We see this event as a continuation and extension of the block party we held the last two years.”

Johnny Panessa, who serves as Mastic Beach Conservancy’s co-vice president, said "it's an opportunity to connect with nature, have fun, and support a worthy cause together."

Alex de Toth, an event coordinator for the group, said members encourage the community to join in.

"It offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to our conservation efforts while enjoying a day filled with excitement and community spirit,” de Toth said. "With paddleboarding, music, food, and family-friendly activities, there will be something for everyone to enjoy that day.”

The registration fee is $50, and members receive $5 off the race fee. For a $75 fee, participants receive entry to the race and a discounted membership to Mastic Beach Conservancy. Early registration is highly recommended. To secure your place in the race or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://paddleguru.com/races/RacetheNarrows