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Winona will host its first Paddle of Life Regatta on Sept. 13 at Lake Winona.
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The boat races are organized by former British Olympic rowing coach David Train, who has staged similar events throughout the world using a paddle as a symbol to bring attention to climate change.
Train has already created a symbolic paddle for the city of Winona, which has been signed by former Prime Minister Tony Blair, 2012 chairman of the London Olympics, Lord Sebastion Coe, Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Artic explorer Will Steger, city of Winona staff and Winona State University students.
“We’re going to try to continue this each year,” City of Winona Community Services Director Chad Ubl said.
Train met City Manager Eric Sorenson at a Purdue University speaking engagement and knew of Winona because of his association with Wenonah Canoe.
The event is designed to get kids involved in rowing and make them more aware of the environment. The regatta is still in the planning stages, but organizers say it will feature a paddle-for-life race with area youth working together in a liberty boat — two canoes tied together, similar to a catamaran. There will also be team races for kids and adults.
Kids may also design their own paddles.
So far, city officials have been impressed by Train’s persistence.
When Train said he was going to get Blair’s signature on the paddle, Ubl and others were doubtful. Two days later, Train e-mailed a photo of Blair holding the signed paddle.
“He’s tenacious, and he’s connected,” Ubl said.
The paddle was gifted to the city of Winona and will be displayed in City Hall.
The regatta is one of many activities planned the second weekend in September for Winona as a continuation of its May 16 Capitol for a Day designation. The city chose the month of September to highlight the entire area.
“This is something we’re very excited about,” Ubl said.
Winona is planning to bring back its World Fair to tie in with the regatta.
Other events include a Sept. 12 Theatre du Mississippi concert by Scottish band Old Blind Dogs at the Masonic Temple Theatre. On Sept. 14, a family art day at Lake Park is planned by the Winona Fine Arts Commission and the Blue Heron Committee.
Contact Käri Knutson at kknutson@winonadailynews.com or (507) 453-3523.
