From left, Phil LaMarche, Alka Srivastava, Robert Digiacco, Blanche Town, Jackilyn Kelly, Will Siegfried, Gene Newman, Jon Ignatowski, Victoria Ledere, Dwight Stevenson, Jim Allott. Front, Julian Dodds

CANTON -- The first St. Lawrence Valley Paddlers Duathlon of the year got off to what event officials called "a great start with perfect weather and more than a dozen participants on May 20."

There were five teams entered and five competing as individuals. Due to the flexible nature of this event, Mary Kelly was able to enter both categories.

The fastest time was posted by the team of Gene Newman and Jon Ignatowski, while the quickest individual was Jim Allott. The youngest team was Noah and Julian Dodds, 12 and 10 years old, respectively.

Team Results: Gene Newman and Jon Ignatowski, 26:45; Victoria Ledere and Dwight Stevenson, 32:23; Jackilyn and Mary Kelly, 38:11; Robert Digiacco and Alka Srivastava, 39:33 and Julian and Noah Dodds 49:16.

Singles results: Jim Allott, 29:03; Phil LaMarche, 31:49; Will Siegfried, 34:22; Mary Kelly, 35:56 and Blanche Town 41:47.

In previous years this event has been held in June, July and August. This year an extra race was added in May. The sunny and cool weather was perfect for both running and paddling. Both kayaks and canoes were used in both the solo and team categories. The event has few restrictions, if it floats, it should qualify, as long as there’s a life jacket on board.

The next Duathlon will be held June 17. There is no fee. Registration begins at 6 p.m. with the race starting at 6:30 p.m.

The next event for St. Lawrence Valley Paddlers is the two-day Madrid Canoe Regatta on Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14.

For more information, visit www.slvpaddlers.org.