COLTON -- The 20th annual ‘Round the Islands Canoe Race is slated for Aug. 2 at 10 a.m. and will feature a variety of races, fireworks and food.

The Higley Association will sponsor the popular family oriented ‘Round the Islands Canoe and Kayak Race.” Registration will be from 9 to 10 a.m.

The race will begin and end at Brookfield Power’s “Big Rock” picnic area and boat launch off Pine Road. The adult and youth races will take paddlers on a scenic tour of a portion of Higley Flow. The child’s race is one mile in length with the longer race proceeding over a four mile course.

The race is described as recreational with a class for every paddler. There are six classes with more added on race day to accommodate all boaters.

This year, the 20th, is marked by a special give-a-way. Each year the Palmer family presents the Veteran Paddler Award in memory of their Dad, C. M. Palmer. This year, Larry Palmer, Charlie’s son, will be donating his kayak in a free give-a-way. Charlie paddled his beloved kayak in waters ranging from the Arctic Circle to the Everglades.

In addition to awards for first through third place finishes, this year there will be three special prizes: the C.M. Palmer Memorial Veteran Paddler Award, Phyllis Baker Memorial Youth Award and Chris Murphy Memorial Women’s Award.

Following the races there are games on the water including pedal boat and paddler’s slaloms. Activities conclude with hotdogs, soda and cookies for all.