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Maine Canoe Symposium to be held in Bridgton

May 28, 2008 - BRIDGTON -- As Kenneth Graham wrote in the children's classic “The Wind in the Willows”, "There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing than messing about in boats."

The more than 30 professional guides, instructors and adventurers that will lead the 22nd annual Maine Canoe Symposium, June 6-8 at Winona Camps for boys in Bridgton, heartily share this sentiment.

"We welcome people of all ages and skill levels to come join a friendly community that is excited to share their canoeing experience and expertise with all who share a desire to be on the water in a canoe," David Butler, symposium organizer and a Registered Maine Guide said.

The volunteer-run symposium will bring together people from throughout North America to learn about the art and heritage of canoeing and enable them to develop skills to fully enjoy the sport.

More than 75 programs will be offered, including hands-on workshops on basic paddling techniques, how to roll an open canoe, skill building for women, poling and freestyle canoeing. Courses on canoe safety, first aid, navigation, trip planning, paddle making and photography will also be offered.

Water-based activities will center around Winona's 4,000-foot shoreline on Moose Pond, with Mount Washington and Mount Pleasant as the backdrop. Offering more than 45 square miles of water to explore, Moose Pond offers plenty of room for paddlers to hone their canoe skills.

Activities for children include arts and crafts, canoeing, outdoor skills, living history activities, hikes up nearby Pleasant Mountain, swimming, games and a planetarium show.

The public is invited to take part in Sunday's canoe races featuring Winona's restored historic war canoes. To learn more about the symposium or to register, visit www.mainecanoesymposium.com.

By Mike Higgins, keepmecurrent.com May 25, 2008.


Lakes: Moose Pond
Regions: Sebago


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