COLTON -- The Higley Association’s ’Round the Islands Canoe Race is set for Aug. 1 starting from the Big Rock Boat launch in Colton at 10 a.m. with registration starting at 9 a.m.

The adult course measures four miles and the fledgling course for those 14 and under is one mile. There are awards for the first three places in each class and drawings for merchandise prizes for all present.

“What makes this race special is the focus on family fun,” said the Higley Association’s Judy Fuhr. “Success in racing depends on a combination of skill and equipment. Paddlers with recreational equipment cannot compete successfully with the sleeker race boats. To make the race fun for all there are classes for all levels of boats by length, hull material, and paddler gender. This makes it possible for everyone to have a chance at success.”

There will be three classes this year not previously advertised. They are guideboats, pedal kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs).

In addition to the merchandise prizes, the Palmer family will be raffling off a child’s kayak which was the property of the late longtime paddling enthusiast C.M. Palmer. Tickets are free. The winner will be picked at the canoe race. The winner does not need to be present to win.

In addition each year the Palmer family presents an award in C.M.’s memory to the veteran paddler with the best finish in his or her class. Charlie was a long time resident of Colton and enthusiastic participant in the race.

Other awards to be presented are the youth paddler award for the best attitude in a young paddler and the Chris Murphy Memorial Award to the woman best exemplifying Chris's love of the sport and her positive, supportive attitude.