Welcome to the TOTALLY RAD
Paddle Keuka 5K Race!
Saturday, August 1, 2026
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The Experience
Get totally psyched and race with us on Keuka Lake!
Join us in the Paddle Keuka 5K Race on Saturday August 1st!
This year’s 80’s-themed event is perfect for kayaks (both recreational and competitive), canoes and paddle boards. Tickets available for single and double kayaks, single and double canoes, SUPs. Racers will launch at the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum and paddle towards the Keuka Lake State Park and end in Sugar Creek for the grand finish!
Don’t have your own gear? Race tickets including equipment use are also available.
With local food, beverages, shirts, raffles, and a costume contest, this is a day filled with fun for the family.
Sponsor the Race
This year’s Paddle Keuka 5K takes place on Saturday, August 1st, and your sponsorship will have us freaking out!
Not only will you help make this event a bodacious success, but it also offers fantastic exposure and marketing opportunities for your brand. Sponsorships must be committed before July 15th to be featured on the shirts!
Check out the sponsorship levels below:
Platinum Record Sponsor $1,000:
- Exclusive naming rights to the Paddle Keuka 5K race (signage on-site prior to event)
- Company signage on-site
- Company logo on SFLM website
- Mention in the SFLM e-newsletter
- Complimentary race entries (2)
- Booth space on-site
- Public mention at event
- Social media recognition – over 4000 Facebook followers and 1200 Instagram followers!
- Company logo on race shirts
Gold Cassette Sponsor $500:
- Company signage on site
- Mention in SFLM E-Newsletter
- Booth space on site
- Public mention at event
- Social media recognition
- Company logo on race shirts
Silver Boombox $250:
- Booth space on site
- Public mention at event
- Social media recognition
- Company logo on race shirts
Neon Fan Club - $100:
- Social media recognition
- Public mention at event
- Company logo on race shirts
Become a Race Volunteer
Race Schedule
Registration & Check-In (7:15-8:15)
From 7:15-8:15, meet us at the Creekside Center barn to register/check in, and pick up your shirt & racing number. This is also a good time to buy raffle tickets!
Mandatory Pre-Race Meeting (8:20)
Starting at 8:20, racers will attend a quick race safety meeting before getting in the water.
Launch Begins (8:30)
After the safety meeting, close to 8:30, racers will start to launch their boats and head to the start line at the mouth of Sugar Creek where the creek meets Keuka Lake.
Race Begins (9:00)
The race will kick off around 9:00 when all racers have made it to the start line!
Stroke Clinic with Jim Mallory (10:15)
Want to perfect your stroke technique? Kayaker, Jim Mallory will be demonstrating paddling tips and tricks after the race.
Food & Drinks Available (10:30)
Food will be available starting at 10:30. Participants will have the option to purchase their food/drink directly from the vendors.
Awards & Raffle (11:00)
At 11:00, awards will be given out to the winning times in each category, followed by the calling of raffle items.
Local Food & Drink Venors
Multiple Boat CATEGORIES
Don't have a boat? Reserve one of ours!
Raffle items
Race against people from all over the region
Past Four-Year Race Times:
Bring Your Dog: The Paddle Keuka 5K Race
Get a feel for what the Paddle Keuka race is all about!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time does the race start?
The registration table will be open for check-in from 7:15 to 8:15. Our pre-race meeting will take place at 8:20, immediately followed by the launching of the boats. The race will start at approximately 9 a.m.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If there is a light drizzle and/or moderate winds, we will continue with the race as planned. If there is thunder and lightning or high winds, we will cancel the race. Because of permitting, scheduling of vendors, and other requirements of preparation, we are unable to have a rain date, nor are we able to provide refunds.
Do all racers get shirts?
Racers who register before July 15th will receive a shirt in their size. We will order extra shirts, but for those who register after that date, we cannot guarantee that we will have a shirt for you.
Can I register the day of the race?
Yes, participants are welcome to register on the day of the race; however we cannot guarantee that you will get a shirt.
Are pets allowed?
We love pets! We ask that dogs be leashed and anyone contemplating bringing a dog will consider how that dog acts in public around crowds and other dogs. Pets must be attended by their owners at all times.
What will the funds raised be used for?
Funds raised will be used for the continuance of paddling programs for the growing Saunders Finger Lakes Museum. We love to introduce people of all ages to the amazing sport of paddling! And, in our humble opinion, the venue is superlative! The SFLM stirs the imagination, educates the mind, and inspires visitors of all ages. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and celebrate the cultures and ecology of the vast Finger Lakes Region. We appreciate your support!
What categories are there for the race?
There is one category for stand-up paddleboards, one for single canoes, one for double canoes, and one for tandem kayaks. Unlimited kayaks (in excess of 17’) will be split into top female and top male finishers. Recreational kayaks will be split into male and female, with three age groups that are determined based on registration.
Where can I park my car and where is boat drop off?
When racers arrive on site, they will be directed to drive around to the launch area. This is where boats and paddling gear will be dropped off. Racers will then be directed to drive their vehicles around to the parking areas on campus which will be no more than a two-minute walk. They will then head to the barn for check-in. For racers who are renting boats, park first and go immediately to the barn for check-in.
Can I still attend if I am not a racer?
Spectators are absolutely welcome to come to the race! Follow us out to the mass start, watch from there for a while, and when the last racers are out of view, come back with us to the finish line to experience the thrill of the finish! Our friends at Keuka Lake State Park have generously offered to allow you to come observe the race from there without paying the entry fee. When you arrive at the barn, ask about a pass. Spectators are warmly welcomed to participate in the raffle, and take advantage of our on-site lunch and beverages. And if you really want to be involved, contact Debbie (dlyon@fingerlakesmuseum.org) to fill one of our many volunteer slots!