2022 Program Book - AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Table of Contents The Tradition Begins.............................................................................................................4 Alcona Pond and 5 Channels get new launches.................................................6 2021 Marathon Results..................................................................................................8,10, Dynamic Duo Back to Defend.........................................................................................9 Iron Paddler Award Recipients.......................................................................................11 The People Who Power the Teams............................................................................. 13 A Passion Passed Down................................................................................................... 21 Renewables First Class.................................................................................................... 23 Hall of Fame............................................................................................................................ 23 Official Winners List.....................................................................................................31, 33 AuSable River Fest Schedule of Events.................................................................. 34 Paddle Fundraiser Returns............................................................................................ 48 Rookie Reverence............................................................................................................... 49 Most Top 10 Finishes........................................................................................................... 61 Remembering a Behind-the-Scenes Marathon Supporter......................... 62 Top 25 Fastest Marathons.............................................................................................. 68 Oscoda Community Events.............................................................................................71

Racing statistics are located throughout the book

74th AuSable River Canoe Marathon 2022 Volunteer Race Committee OSCODA Keith Wojahn Kathy Erickson Chris Lovelace Heather Tait Sam Harmon Rod Matthews Marie Matthews Mikayla Erickson L.J. Bourgeois Ryan Matthews Justin Griffith GRAYLING Ilene Geiss-Wilson Andy Moore Mary Luke Suzanne Schlachter Wayne Koppa Yvonne Schreiber Amy Martella Karen Martella Kate Reitz John Lucey Jack Richards Rich Kimmel Jon Schultz Ernie Balch Greg Stansbury Bruce Milligan Toni Stephan Michelle Milliken Kate Reitz Kathryn Bentley Phil Weiler Alexis Cherven John Cherven

© 2022 Sunrise Printing & Publishing, Inc. Publisher of the Arenac County Independent, Ogemaw County Herald and Oscoda County Herald 215 W. Houghton Ave. P.O. Box 247 West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-0044

Photos for this year’s cover of the Ausable River Canoe Marathon provided by:

Row 1 - Left to Right - Michelle Milliken, Kathryn Bentley, Rick Joy Row 2 - MCRA, Ginger Casey, Unknown Row 3 - Ginger Casey

Program Book

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The Tradition Begins

By Kate Reitz Nearly 75 years ago, at a 24-hour truck stop in Oscoda, Michigan, Howard Brubaker of the Oscoda Chamber of Commerce and Frank Davis of the Tawas Area Chamber of Commerce collaborated on an idea initially meant to boost tourism to their little towns situated on the shores of Lake Huron.

From that brainstorming session, what has become known as North

America’s toughest and richest canoe race, the non-stop 120-mile, AuSable River Canoe Marathon, was born. For most of the nearly 75 years since that first race, The Marathon has started along the banks of the AuSable in downtown Grayling, Michigan, at a place that has become synonymous with The Marathon, and that over these many years has been referred to by many people simply as, ‘Rays.’

With a rich history that spans back to a period long before The Marathon came to be, this same upper area of the AuSable River was where Michigan Native Americans and early explorers portaged from the AuSable to the Manistee River and back, while traveling between Michigan’s storied coasts by canoe.

This spot on the riverbanks in downtown Grayling is adjacent to the location that Chippewa Indian Chief David Shoppenagon and his family called home beginning in the late 1870’s. Chief Shoppenagon utilized his spot on those same banks of the AuSable as the hub of his popular hunting and fishing guiding business, launching a tradition of service that has carried on in that same location, more than 150 years later.

When the first official race kicked off in September 1947, only a small, four-wall structure owned by Sailor Bill Huddleston and known as ‘Sailor’s Fly Factory’ stood at this spot on the banks of the

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AuSable. Sailor’s shop served as the starting line of what was then known as the ‘AuSable River Canoe Championship Marathon.’ That first year, 46 teams started the race and only 15 finished, with Allen Carr (28) and Delbert Case (21), both of Grayling, Michigan taking the title with a winning time of 21 hours, 3 minutes.

By the time

the third AuSable Marathon was held in September of 1949, then owner Ray Snider, was nearing completion on the construction of the much larger ‘Ray’s Canoe Livery’ which he modeled after the lumbering museum building at Hartwick Pines State Park.

This two-story, half-log building with the long, riverside front porch has served as the backdrop for the start of most AuSable Marathons since that time.

Ownership of Rays Canoe Livery transferred from Ray Snider to the Al and Cappy Westervelt Family in 1968, who continued strong support of the Marathon and contributed to its success. Ray’s was purchased by the Southard

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Family in 1979 and became known as ‘Ray’s Canoe Livery and The Fly Factory.’ In a nod to Chief Shoppenagon’s business activities some 100 years earlier, fly fishing guiding and outfitters services were once again offered, along with recreational canoe and kayak rentals. Throughout the nearly 30 years of ownership by the Southard Family, they enthusiastically embraced hosting duties as the starting point of the race, and invested considerable time and effort promoting The Marathon, and the sport of marathon canoe racing.

In 2008 Ray’s Canoe Livery and The Fly Factory became ‘The Old AuSable Fly Shop,’ a fly-fishing outfitter and pro-shop offering guide services and lodging, under the ownership of Jeff Gardner and Linda Matas. In 2017, ‘Ray’s BBQ, Brews & Blues’ restaurant was added to the property. Open yearround and described on its website as a place to “Eat some great BBQ on the banks of the famous Au Sable River while drinking one of the best beers you’ve ever had.,” Ray’s BBQ, Brews and Blues also boasts full riverside dining during the summer, and arguably one of the best viewpoints of The Marathon start that money can buy.

Although the current-day view of these banks and river bends of the upper AuSable River would no-doubt be nearly unrecognizable to the Native Americans who traveled them long before Michigan even became a state, or likely even to the flyfishermen and canoe racers who graced the waters in the 1940’s, the traditions they established so long ago continue on today, honoring them and celebrating the storied river that winds through the valleys from Grayling to Oscoda and the shores of Lake Huron.

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Alcona Pond and Five Channels Get New Launches

Two new launches at dams along the path of the Au Sable River Canoe Marathon -- Alcona Pond and Five Channels -- are ready to go this summer. The launches enable an easier portage around the dams for paddlers to continue down the scenic AuSable River.

The walkway to the launch and the launch deck at Alcona are made of durable concrete.

A smooth steel edge surrounds the launch deck, a welcome feature that allows paddlers to board their small watercraft without having to get into the water.

The modern launch replaced aging wood steps and railings along the embankment where paddlers needed to enter the water to get into their canoe/ kayak. Over the years, the water at the location became deeper, making it more difficult for paddlers to board their watercraft.

The new launch was installed a short distance downstream from the previous launch where the

water is shallower. To protect the shoreline from erosion, rip-rap was also added to both sides of the shoreline.

“We researched solutions to create a launch that is safer, more convenient and long-lasting while continuing to provide recreational access to the river,” said Matt Carmer, Natural Resources Administrator at Consumers Energy, who coordinated the project.

A launch was also installed at Five Channels Dam just before the 2021 Au Sable River Canoe Marathon held in July.

At Five Channels Dam, a new core wall was built, which included a new upstream canoe take out as part of the canoe portage. This design is similar to Foote Dam and Mio Dam. In 2019, the canoe/kayak slide at Five Channels Dam was upgraded and the first-ever slide was installed at Mio Dam.

30 M-55 Tawas City (989) 362-4449

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

As the portages at Alcona, Five Channels and Mio dams are on the route of the 120-mile Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, the slides and launches were designed with input from representatives of the planning organization, the nonprofit Au Sable River International Canoe Marathon, Inc. The 120-mile race from Grayling to Oscoda is held annually on the last weekend in July. The event attracts professional paddlers and up to 50,000 spectators from the United States and Canada. Along the route, two-person teams portage at Consumers Energy’s six hydro dams.

“Consumers Energy is a longtime Marathon partner and sponsor,” Carmer said. “The event gives us an opportunity to support local communities and showcase our hydroelectric sites that generate clean, renewable energy from one of the nation’s most scenic rivers.”

Program Book

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2021 AuSable River Canoe Marathon Results Place

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

No.

63 99 97 55 08 52 07 02 66 13 91 22 78 01 90 20 30 18 16 03 80 14 46 39 74 57 10 35 92 81 45 31 70 40 43 79 19 86 23 87

Paddlers (Ages)

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44) Wesley Dean (26) & Weston Willoughby (30) Chris Issendorf (39) & Logan Mynar (30) Mike Davis (30) & Shane MacDowell (33) Pete Mead (40) & Carson Burmeister (24) Ryan Zaveral (28) & Matt Gabriel, Jr. (37) Kyle Mynar (36) & Kyle Stonehouse (27) Brett Stockton (58) & Ryan Halstead (34) Patrick Madden (41) & Steve Watson (49) Nick Walton (48) & Serge Pagé (44) Daniel Medina (27) & Ian Rolls (43) Jason Hatfield (43) & Colin Hunter (40) Michael Schlimmer (35) & Ben Schlimmer (32) Richard Lauth (48) & Mary Schlimmer (30) Austin Weiler (29) & Adam Gelinas (39) Russ Reker (57) & Tad Hill (43) Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56) Douglas Dalman (46) & Brad Wilson (39) Jeff Kolka (62) & Naomi Kolka (25) Mo Harwood, Jr. (42) & Erich Podjaske (39) Kevin Boss (58) & Andy Hall (49) David Teddy (47) & Bill Torongo (59) Paul Olney (58) & Michael Fries (68) Brandon Stafford (36) & Andrew Condie (36) Seth Miller (54) & Stephen Miller (56) Dan Mecklenburg (59) & Jon Webb (61) Joe Leusby (37) & Rob Shadley (37) Ryan Childs (48) & Zachary Childs (19) Brian Jones (37) & Gwen Hills (37) Greg Zophy (64) & Jeremiah Menk (44) Dan Goltz (50) & Judson Steinback (40) Fred Kueffer (42) & Kira Stolen (49) Benjamin Tarbutton (36) & David Smith (37) Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63) Mike Hartman (45) & Sean Casey (43) Doug Moggo (59) & Josh Moggo (29) Kaitlin Mynar (30) & Virginia Condie (42) Chris Broderson (52) & Emily Broderson (43) Kevin Olson (34) & Sylvie Nadeau (46) Nathan Tart (41) & Shannon Issendorf (38)

Time

13:54:09 14:07:37 14:11:01 14:14:11 14:15:51 14:17:33 14:24:43 14:26:26 14:27:41 14:27:48 14:33:40 14:39:07 14:43:19 14:44:24 14:49:30 14:59:48 15:00:42 15:16:20 15:19:29 15:24:56 15:27:05 15:29:02 15:29:55 15:30:02 15:32:34 15:34:17 15:39:34 15:40:42 15:41:07 15:42:37 15:44:26 15:47:00 15:49:44 15:52:00 15:54:43 15:55:53 15:56:08 15:57:49 15:59:55 16:03:48

Continued on Page 10

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Dynamic Duo Back to Defend

Smashed Record in 2021, Now the Hunted

Less than a year after their recordsmashing performance, Jorden Wakeley and Matt Meersman will be back to defend their title at the 2022 Consumers Energy Au Sable River Canoe Marathon.

The dynamic duo will return July 3031 to the 120-mile race, but this time in unfamiliar territory. The two are now being hunted by the rest of the canoers, who will do everything in their power to make sure their reign as champions is short-lived.

“I’m more motivated now than I’ve ever been to defend our title,” said Wakeley, 31, a Grayling native and professional mountain bike racer. “There are a lot of great teams that will be looking to knock us off, but we will be ready.”

In the 2021 marathon, Wakeley and Meersman had a time of 13 hours, 54 minutes and nine seconds– smashing the previous record of 13 hours 58 minutes and eight seconds set in 1994 by race Hall of Famers Serge Corbin and Solomon Carriere. Those are the only two teams ever to be under 14 hours at the marathon.

The recent champs caught up to train for a few days under sunny skies in

Florida.

“Nobody has pushed me harder in my life than Jorden,” said Meersman, 45, of South Bend, Ind who works in river conservation. “I know what kind of athlete Jorden is, he competes at the highest level. My mindset to myself is you better get on your game old guy.

There’s an opportunity here and you better seize it.”

The two go about training for the Marathon in much different ways, but they find themselves at their best when the pressure mounts.

“Something just clicks with Matt. I don’t have to say anything to him since we are both on the same page,” Wakeley said. “We want to accomplish the same thing and I trust him to put in the work to put us in the best possible position to make that happen.”

In 2021, Wakeley and Meersman finished more than 13 minutes ahead of the second-place team, Wes Dean of Grayling and Weston Willoughby of Traverse City. Dean and Willoughby finished in 14:07:37.

Willoughby and Dean finished in first place, one spot ahead of them in two

previous races to last year’s Consumers Energy Au Sable River Canoe Marathon – the Curley Memorial in Oscoda and the Spike’s Challenge.

“All the credit in the world to them – they are a great team” said Meersman.

“That really pushed us harder and know what we have to do for (the 2021) and this year’s Au Sable Marathon.”

Training for Meersman includes more than 200 hours to build his endurance for the variety of circumstances his team will face in his 16th Au Sable River Canoe Marathon.

“Sometimes I think we should dial it back, but Jorden keeps the pedal down,”

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Meersman said. “I just follow his lead, and if I blow up, blow up. He has to know I’m giving him everything I’ve got.”

While Wakeley said he likes training on the water, he stays in tip-top shape primarily through cross country skiing and mountain biking.

He rode his bike for about 7,000 miles last year and spent another 1,000 miles cross country skiing.

“I love getting ready for this event,” said Wakeley. “We know the challenges that we are facing, but we have confidence in each other that we can accomplish our goal again this year.”

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Continued from Page 8

Place

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 10

No.

21 98 72 67 96 11 28 06 53 68 05 36 56 73 71 15 47 84 58 04 50 42 61 54 17 85 76 59 33 12 60 94 48 77 51 69 75 88 27 24 62 41 26

Paddlers (Ages)

Brandon Gerardy (41) & Stephen Leppard (46) Levi Korneli (26) & Garrett Garner (24) Lydia Huelskamp (29) & Mollie Binion (38) Roy Sowersby (60) & Bruce Daman (52) Cecili Bugge (21) & Holly Orr (38) Robert Smith (47) & William Fowler (30) Alan Putnam (35) & Aaron Putnam (37) Mike Packard (57) & Jake Crotser (23) Christopher Krey (30) & Sean Brabant (31) Rusty McLain (62) & Lee Duncan (46) Ted Kenyon (49) & Pam Fitzgerald (60) Zach Cheney (24) & Michael Garon (63) Nick Lyesiuk (77) & Peter Heed (71) Samantha Binion (35) & Wade Binion (42) Michael Cade (49) & Chris Champion (40) Rodney Elliott (54) & Rebecca Sutter (52) Jeff DeFeo (66) & Katie Peck (26) Nate Winkler (49) & Jaya Elleson (61) Michael Davis (51) & Io Harberts (62) Josh Kellogg (38) & Jeremy Kellogg (35) Chris Ecker (57) & Bill Mahaffy, Jr. (40) David Hawkins (39) & Bryan Bearss (44) Chuck Hewitt (62) & Jenna Briggs (36) Maria Schilling (48) & Lynne Witte (67) L.J. Bourgeois (44) & Nicole Rice-Owens (43) Gary Aprea (78) & Gloria Wesley (61) Keith Wojahn (57) & Jerry Killingbeck (52) Mark Koenig (63) & Ron Koenig (59) Helen-Holly Crouch (63) & Debbie Brax (59) Natalie Kellogg (17) & Mike Kellogg (52) Jim Amell (62) & Roger Henry (79) Travis VanDeCasteele (24) & Kyle Schmidt (26) Mickey Kimsel (47) & Bryce Martin (28) Josh Harvey (31) & River Robertson (29) William Dean (62) & Lewie Madill (62) Chris Scully (61) & Ed Butler (74) Bernie Tuszynski (64) & David Timmerman (63) Eric Dittenber (44) & Yves Cartier (65) Gary McLain (55) & Dwight Walker (67) Kristi Treston (27) & Katie Treston (32) Jacob Cramer (26) & Matthew Rudy (27) Brian Whaley (27) & James Holzberger (30) Andrew Weeks (57) & Paddi Thornburg (58)

Time

16:08:16 16:10:50 16:13:51 16:15:23 16:17:55 16:20:27 16:25:00 16:25:29 16:27:15 16:31:24 16:32:38 16:35:48 16:36:31 16:37:15 16:38:05 16:38:46 16:39:15 16:42:24 16:43:49 16:44:37 16:46:58 16:48:45 17:00:00 17:06:53 17:07:28 17:08:27 17:13:25 17:23:40 17:27:36 17:40:56 18:04:47 18:11:24 18:17:57 DQ-OT Drop DQ-OT Drop Drop Drop Drop Drop DQ-OT Drop

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

C

reated by Hall of Fame Historian John B. Cook, the Iron Paddler Award is given to paddlers who have finished 10 or more AuSable River Canoe Marathons in the Professional Division. To put 10 finishes into perspective, it is 1,200 miles of intense hardcore paddling; it is a minimum of 500,000 relentless paddle strokes; it is a minimum of 140 hours of grueling canoe racing.

These paddlers are die-hard and dedicated. These paddlers are iron-willed and incredible. These paddlers are the Toughest of the Tough!

Iron Paddler logo designed by Brent Southland

Iron Paddler Award Recipient s “T he Toughest of the Tough!”

No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

Paddler Bernie Fowler Steven Kolonich Ralph Sawyer Jack Kent Al Widing, Sr. Irvin “Buzz” Peterson Jack Kolka Jerry Kellogg Verlen Kruger John Baker Bob Welsch Butch Stockton Brett Stockton Tony Short Rick Joy Jeff Kellogg Al Robinson Dave Shepherd Ken Kolonich Serge Corbin Lynne Witte Jeff Kolka Jim Harwood Bill Torongo Steve Kolonich Randy Drake Ted Kolka Al Rudquist Blaise St. Pierre Bill DuBois Robert Bradford Clark Kent Steve Landick Bruce Barton Carrie Montgomery Michael Garon Jon Webb

Year Age

No.

1956 1961 1962 1965 1968 1971 1972 1977 1978 1980 1980 1983 1987 1987 1987 1989 1989 1991 1992 1993 1993 1994 1994 1996 1997 1997 1997 1998 2000 2002 2002 2003 2003 2003 2003 2004 2004

38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74

30 41 25 34 43 47 38 33 56 38 38 34 24 23 28 44 46 35 46 36 39 35 30 34 25 43 31 38 60 44 59 43 50 46 33 47 44

Paddler John Sullivan Tom Trudgeon Joe Shaw Connie Cannon Dwight Walker Steve Krantz Solomon Carrière Joseph Seifert Fred Mills Ted Smutek Frank Smutek Mo Harwood, Jr. Ray Bauer Tom Cannon Peter Heed Ray Quick Joe Johnson Andrew Triebold Steve Lajoie Mike Bradford Allen Limberg Greg Nelson Brian Royce Chuck Hewitt Colin Hunter Tim Sheldon David Teddy Amy Solak Sean Casey Mike Hartman Jeff DeFeo Nate Winkler Robert Smith Jon Thompson Don Brooks Matt Streib Pete Mead Program Book

Year Age

No.

2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2013 2013

75 Tad Hill 76 Rodney Matthews 77 Dick Kloss 78 Nick Walton 79 Gloria Wesley 80 Jason Hatfield 81 Flash Marsh 82 Joey Kimsel 83 Brad Wilson 84 Gary Aprea 85 Tom Ackemyer 86 Chris Hewitt 87 Ellen Thompson 88 Ryan Halstead 89 Matt Meersman 90 Russ Reker 91 Mike Packard 92 Tim McClure 93 John Lucey 94 Michael Schlimmer 95 Tim Chapple 96 Benedict Schlimmer 97 Doug Moggo 98 Fritz Hansen 99 Steve Watson 100 Matt Gabriel Jr. 101 Roger Henry 102 Mike Davis 103 Rebecca Davis 104 Ray Trudgeon 105 Daniel Medina 106 Joe Leusby 107 Nick Lyesiuk 108 lo Harberts 109 Jerry Killingbeck

36 47 51 45 52 53 51 56 53 40 74 30 52 53 59 54 59 34 34 45 52 53 38 51 30 46 37 46 33 35 56 39 38 55 43 49 32

Paddler

Year Age 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 2019 2019 2019 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021

35 58 71 41 54 37 38 34 33 72 50 25 58 29 39 52 52 58 52 31 43 28 55 76 46 34 76 28 29 37 27 37 77 62 52

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

The People Who Power The Teams

By Amy Martella It’s 4am on the last Sunday of July. Where are we? You guessed it! McKinley Bridge and it’s the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon.

A crowd of people stand in the chilly river ready to feed while spectators line the bank. Each feeding team is waiting for their canoe to pass under the bridge.

Much of the focus of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon is rightfully on all the awesome paddlers, but their feeding teams have an important role too.

The paddlers need fuel to keep going and would not make the 120 miles from Grayling to Oscoda without the assistance of their “feed crew”.

Feeders are their team’s lifeline and must be prepared for anything and everything that their team might need.

Prior to the race, paddlers label their food and drink jug. Either by feed number or by the location in preparation for each feed. Feeders bring everything

they need with them to the river along with extra paddles as well as supplies that might be needed to repair the boat. The feed crews should also be thinking about extra clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, icy hot and many other necessities that may be needed. Is it cold? They may want a jacket. Is it hot? They may need extra water. Is it rainy? They may want a dry shirt.

It doesn’t matter, the feeders are in the water ready for their team all night long.

Feed teams also have the important job of preparation and anticipation of every feed.

Usually you find yourself in a “hurry up and wait” situation.

Rush, rush, rush to the next designated feed and wait for your team. It’s up all night in the cold dark river, yet we all wait the entire year for the calendar to turn to the last week in July and the start of the marathon week!

The feed crew is constantly thinking about the task of being ready for their boat. Deciding what they

Program Book

Photos by Crystal Brabant

need will definitely keep you busy. While in the river awaiting your team, you are already thinking about the needs for the next stop. Do they want anything special? What is on the list? There is a very special comradery among feed teams, not only within your own unit but we also support each other.

What do the paddlers eat?

While food varies from team to team many eat fruit such as melon, grapes or blueberries and some prefer more of an all-liquid diet with electrolyte drinks such as Gatorade, Perpetuem, Ensure, Boost or some other energy drink that keeps them going for the gruelling 14–19-hour race.

One would think that being up all night would seem to be hard to do, but the night passes so quickly and before you know it, you are leaving Foote Dam and heading toward Oscoda. The paddlers aren’t the only ones in the race that are dedicated. The feed crew is dedicated to the team. Nothing is better than seeing your team come around the corner and when they make that final turn for home with the last sprint into the finish line! They did IT!

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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Active Paddlers with 100+ Career Points Name

Points

Best Finish

Last Year of Points

Top Tens

Name

Points

Best Finish

Last Year of Points

Top Tens

Matt Rudnitsky

410

4th

2017

7

Chris Issendorf

200

3rd

2021

3

Michael Schlimmer

410

3rd

2017

8

Logan Mynar

190

3rd

2021

5

Weston Willoughby

410

2nd

2021

7

Allen Limberg

180

1st

2006

2

Pete Mead

410

3rd

2021

12

Mike Vincent

180

2nd

2016

3

Samuel Frigon

380

1st

2019

5

Tim Sheldon

170

5th

2015

6

Shane MacDowell

370

4th

2021

7

Mathieu Pellerin

170

2nd

2016

2

Benedict Schlimmer

350

3rd

2016

7

Wesley Dean

170

2nd

2021

3

Brian Krantz

290

3rd

1992

7

Mike Bradford

160

6th

2013

7

Tad Hill

280

4th

2016

7

Kyle Mynar

160

5th

2021

6

Clark Kent

250

5th

2012

9

Trevor LeFever

140

6th

2018

3

Lynne Witte

230

4th

1992

5

Colin Hunter

130

8th

2018

6

Steve Watson

230

6th

2021

8

Patrick Armstrong

110

4th

2014

2

Official Marathon Career Points Ranking - Top 50 Rank

Name

Points

1 2 3 4 5 6 7(t) 7(t) 9(t) 9(t) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20(t) 20(t) 20(t) 20(t) 20(t) 25 26(t) 26(t) 28

Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka Andrew Triebold Rick Joy Steve Lajoie Ralph Sawyer Bill Torongo Brett Stockton John Baker Jim Harwood Tony Short Jerry Kellogg Ken Kolonich Jack Kolka Butch Stockton Steve Kolonich Irvin Peterson Bernie Fowler Al Widing, Sr. Steven Kolonich Jack Kent Jeff Kellogg Randy Drake Nick Walton Solomon Carriere Dave Shepherd Al Rudquist Ryan Halstead

2150 1810 1650 1620 1550 1290 1260 1260 1220 1220 1150 1120 1050 1030 1010 1000 890 810 770 740 740 740 740 740 700 690 690 680

18

Best Finish 1st 1st 1st 3rd 1st 1st 2nd 1st 1st 1st 2nd 1st 2nd 2nd 1st 2nd 1st 1st 2nd 1st 3rd 1st 1st 2nd 1st 3rd 1st 1st

Last Year of Points 2005 2005 2019 2008 2019 1968 2012 2021 1990 2006 2009 1982 2015 1981 1987 2011 1971 1956 1988 1965 1968 1990 1998 2021 2000 1992 1998 2021

Top Tens 22 20 18 26 17 14 19 14 15 19 19 14 21 16 13 18 10 10 11 13 12 11 11 14 9 10 9 10

660 650

Best Finish 3rd 2nd

Last Year of Points 2007 2007

Top Tens 15 11

John Sullivan

640

2nd

2007

11

Bob Welsch Stan Hall Matthew Rimer Jay Stephan, Sr. Matt Streib Larry Kindell Christophe Proulx Tim Triebold Steve Krantz Luc Robillard Mo Harwood, Jr. Matt Meersman Claude Corbin Don Feldhauser Louis Berthiaume Hugh Bissonette Ken Brown Mike Davis Verlen Kruger Guillaume Blais

630 620 600 550 550 540 540 530 520 510 490 490 480 470 470 440 440 430 420 420

2nd 1st 1st 1st 2nd 1st 1st 2nd 3rd 1st 2nd 1st 1st 1st 2nd 1st 1st 3rd 4th 2nd

1981 1973 2010 1957 2014 1961 2018 1999 1990 1978 2010 2021 1979 1955 2004 1951 1981 2021 1980 2019

11 7 9 6 8 6 6 9 8 6 9 9 5 5 7 5 5 7 10 5

Rank

Name

Points

29 30

Ted Kolka Bruce Barton

31 32 33 34 35(t) 35(t) 37(t) 37(t) 39 40 41 42(t) 42(t) 44 45(t) 45(t) 47(t) 47(t) 49 50(t) 50(t)

#H up A ll N ight

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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CHALLENGE WEEKEND

ANNUALLY EARLY SPRING EVENTS INCLUDE CANOE/KAYAK & RUN/WALK

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

A Passion Passed Down

By Lexi Cherven I cannot tell you the number of times I have been asked, “When are you going to do the Marathon?”. Although racing has crossed my mind; my intention to race has never been more than a distant thought. To me there is so much more to the AuSable River Canoe Marathon than crossing the finish line; it’s an opportunity to spend valuable quality time with my dad, John Cherven.

My dad was introduced to the Marathon back in 1983 when he was looking for ways to get more involved in the community.

He sparked up a conversation with Steve Southard, who recommended he come to a Marathon committee meeting. Little did he know how life changing that first meeting would be.

Over the past 39 years, my dad has been involved in nearly every aspect of the race. As an accountant, he immediately fell into the role of treasurer; however, his involvement grew year after year. Some of his most well-known contributions are aiding in the establishment of the Time Trials, Special Olympics Canoe Challenge, and more recently, the Scholarship Fund.

By far one of his most favorite roles on the committee was managing paddler registration and entries, which involved making initial contact with all first-time paddlers to ensure they were fully prepared for what was ahead of them. Being an initial point of contact allowed him to develop a

special bond with the rookie and out of state paddlers.

His passion for the Marathon has gone far beyond committee responsibilities. He has opened his home to over 25 paddlers giving them a place to stay during Race Week or during the off-season for training.

His cabin just upstream of McMasters Bridge has not only been a popular place for committee members and friends to view the race, but also a feeding spot to many teams who want to avoid the busy scene at the bridge.

I experienced my first

AuSable River Canoe Marathon in 1995 at the age of 11 months old. Growing up around the Marathon with a parent as involved as my dad was, you either quickly learn to love it or hate it. I was fortunate enough to love every minute of it.

The Marathon became the highlight of my summer. As I got older, I became

Program Book

more involved in helping my dad with each of his responsibilities; however, the Special Olympics Canoe Challenge has always been one of my favorites. There is nothing like seeing the joy in the Special Olympians’ face as they hop in the canoe with a Marathon paddler. I would like to think this event played a large role in my decision to become a Neurologic Physical Therapist.

In the recent years, my dad has stepped away from most of his formal roles on the committee to enjoy the race as a spectator and support me in my position as organizer and co-emcee of the Opening Program.

Despite stepping back, he continues to be a mentor and point of contact for all things Marathon-related.

Being involved in the Marathon alongside my dad has taught me so many life lessons, but more importantly it’s been something that I will cherish forever.

Dad, thank you for your commitment to making the AuSable River Canoe Marathon what it is today.

Lexi Cherven in 1996

John and Lexi Cherven at the finish line in Oscoda in 2014

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Renewables First Class Matt Conn sought a new challenge along his career path.

It was 2019, and he had been working at Consumers Energy for six years, having joined the company after service in the Army. He worked as a gas field worker, and most recently as a trenching machine operator.

He saw a job posting about a new company apprenticeship program with focus on renewable energy.

Fast forward to Feb. 9, and Conn is one of four employees who is about to embark on a renewables career after graduating with the first class of the Renewable Specialist Apprenticeship (is this the official name). It was formed in a partnership with the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) and Michigan State Utility Workers Council (MSUWC).

The nearly three-year program, developed jointly by our Learning and Development team and Power for America (P4A),

trains apprentices to climb great heights to fix hydraulics and complete advanced electrical troubleshooting. Once the program is complete, apprentices are certified to work in wind, solar and battery fields.

“This is the future, and there’s no place in this company I would rather be,” said Conn, who lives in Birch Run. “This is a great opportunity, and I can’t wait to see what happens next for this class.”

Joining Conn in the first class are: • Keith J. Boulis of Bay City, who started with the company in 2013 as a meter reader and was an auxiliary operator at the Karn plant, which is scheduled to close in 2023.

• Paul Turner of Midland, who joined the company in 2016 as a gas field intern. He joined the company after a stint in the Army.

• Justin Fodo of Bay City, who began his Consumers Energy career in 2018 as a gas field worker and then was an environmental operator at the Karn plant.

Andrew Snider, Director of Renewable

2015 - Larry Kindell & Larry Roberts

2006 - Marilyn Wagner & Jay Stephan, Sr. 2007 - Hugh Bissonette & Bernie Fowler

AuSable River Canoe Marathon

2008 - Butch Stockton & Harry Curley

2012 - John Baker & Ed Wojahn

2011 - Stan Hall & John B. Cook

2016 - Howard Brubaker & Réjean Huard 2017 - Jerry Kellogg, Jeff Kellogg & The Gary Family

2009 - Ralph Sawyer & Al Widing, Sr. 2010 - Frank & Peggy Smutek & Oscoda/ AuSable Fire Dept. Water Rescue

Operations, said this first class worked as a team and put in long training hours to become renewable specialists. Snider added the class helped to smooth out bumps in the road for enrollees in the program’s second and third cohorts.

The program is preparing to hire and train up to 24 additional renewables employees over the next two years – and helps ensure no worker is left behind in the clean energy transformation.

“This remarkable group will always be remembered as the first class,” Snider said. “We are here to celebrate them and how they will help us power Michigan’s clean energy future. All of this was made possible thanks to our extraordinary partnership between Consumers Energy, UWUA and MSUWC.”

2013 - Serge Corbin & Bruce Myles 2014 - Lynette Witte & Jack Kolka

Program Book

2018 - Bruce Burton & Solomon Carrière 2019 - Jeff Kolka & Joe Wakeley 2021 - Steven Kolonich & Irvin and Steve Peterson

23

Professional Division Split Time Records Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2018

0:41:12

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Stephan Bridge

2018

1:12:50

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Wakeley Bridge

1993

1:41:29

Jeff Kolka (34) & Bill Torongo (31)

McMasters Bridge

2021

2:37:46

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Parmalee Bridge

2021

3:39:30

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021

4:41:15

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Mio Dam

2021

5:05:38

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

McKinley Bridge

2021

6:48:05

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

4001 Bridge

2021

7:38:04

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Alcona Dam

2021

8:14:26

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Loud Dam

2021 10:01:54 Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Five Channels Dam 2021 10:26:58 Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44) Cooke Dam

2021 11:27:41 Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Foote Dam

2021 12:37:48 Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Oscoda (Finish Line) 2021 13:54:09 Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44) 2nd Half

1994

7:01:54 Serge Corbin (37) & Solomon Carrière (37)

Professional Division Point-to-Point Time Records

24

Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2018

0:41:12

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Stephan Bridge

2017

0:31:24

Steve Lajoie (41) & Guillaume Blais (31)

Wakeley Bridge

1993

0:28:21

Tony Short (29) & Scott McKenzie (35)

McMasters Bridge

2021

0:54:50

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Parmalee Bridge

1996

1:01:43

Jeff Kolka (37) & Serge Corbin (39)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021

1:01:45

Jorden Wakeley (31) & Matt Meersman (44)

Mio Dam

1982

0:22:53

Dave Shepherd (26) & Jeff Kolka (23)

McKinley

2021

1:41:11 Wesley Dean (26) & Weston Willoughby (30)

4001 Bridge

2014

0:48:55

Alcona Dam

2017

0:35:31 Christophe Proulx (22) & Samuel Frigon (21)

Loud Dam

1987

1:43:10

Serge Corbin (30) & Brett Stockton (24)

Five Channels Dam 2010

0:23:06

Josh Taylor (31) & Matt Meersman (33)

Andrew Triebold (38) & Steve Lajoie (38)

Cooke Dam

1986

0:57:13

Randy Drake (32) & Eric McNett (31)

Foote Dam

1987

1:08:11

Serge Corbin (30) & Brett Stockton (24)

Oscoda

1991

1:15:32

Serge Corbin (34) & Brett Stockton (28)

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Proud sponsor of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon and leader in Sales on the AuSable River for 2020 and 2021.

MICHELLE MILLIKIN 734-474-9487 michelle@homewaters.net www.homewaters.net 234 E. Michigan Ave., Suite #3, Grayling, MI 49738

Program Book

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Home of the Marathon Start Line 204 Ingham St. Grayling

989-348-1515

www.raysgrayling.com

200 Ingham St. Grayling

989-348-3330 www.oldausable.com

26

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Mixed Division Split Time Records

Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2017

0:44:14

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Stephan Bridge

2017

1:17:29

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Wakeley Bridge

2017

1:46:50

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

McMasters Bridge

2017

2:44:11

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Parmalee Bridge

2017

3:49:01

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Camp Ten Bridge

2017

4:53:36

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Mio Dam

2017

5:18:38

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

McKinley

2017

7:06:39

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

4001 Bridge

2017

7:59:41

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Alcona Dam

2017

8:37:46

Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Loud Dam

2017 10:31:07 Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Five Channels Dam 2017 10:57:26 Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41) Cooke Dam

2017 12:00:33 Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Foote Dam

2017 13:14:35 Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

Oscoda

2017 14:37:45 Mary Schlimmer (26) & Andrew Triebold (41)

2nd Half

2009

7:26:08

Connie Cannon (48) & Bruce Barton (52)

Mixed Division Point-to-Point Records Checkpoints

Year Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2017 0:44:14 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

Stephan Bridge

2017 0:33:15 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

Wakeley Bridge

2017 0:29:21 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

McMasters Bridge

2017 0:57:21 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

Parmalee Bridge

2021 1:04:42

Camp Ten Bridge

2017 1:04:35 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

Mio Dam

2017 0:25:02 Andrew Triebold (41) & Mary Schlimmer (26)

McKinley

2021 1:46:48

Richard Lauth (48) & Mary Schlimmer (30)

4001 Bridge

2021 0:52:31

Richard Lauth (48) & Mary Schlimmer (30)

Alcona Dam

2009 0:37:36

Bruce Barton (52) & Connie Cannon (48)

Loud Dam

1988 1:51:21

Jim Myers (26) & Lynne Witte (34)

Five Channels Dam 2015 0:25:17

Richard Lauth (48) & Mary Schlimmer (30)

Don, Jen & Sydney Macejka PO Box 198 • 2244 Deeter Road, Luzerne, MI 48636

Mike Davis (24) & Rebecca Davis (25)

Cooke Dam

2009 1:00:33

Holly Reynolds (29) & Jeff Rankinen (45)

Foote Dam

2009 1:12:07

Holly Reynolds (29) & Jeff Rankinen (45)

Oscoda

2009 1:18:21

Bruce Barton (52) & Connie Cannon (48) Program Book

www.doitbest.com luzernehardwaremi@gmail.com 27

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Women's Division Split Time Records

Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

1994

0:48:24

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Stephan Bridge

1994

1:24:51

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Wakeley Bridge

1994

1:57:38

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

McMasters Bridge

1994

2:58:36

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Parmalee Bridge

1994

4:04:40

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Camp Ten Bridge

1994

5:12:24

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Mio Dam

1994

5:39:18

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

McKinley

1994

7:31:30

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

4001 Bridge

1994

8:25:29

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Alcona Dam

1994

9:05:48

Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

2019 11:01:45

Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Five Channels Dam 2019 11:27:49

Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Loud Dam Cooke Dam

2019 12:31:08

Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Foote Dam

2019 13:47:57

Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Oscoda

2019 15:15:36

Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

2nd Half

2017

Rebecca Davis (27) & Edith MacHattie (43)

7:39:14

Women’s Division Point-to-Point Records Checkpoints

Year Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

1994 0:48:24 Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Stephan Bridge

1994 0:36:27 Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Wakeley Bridge

2017 0:32:33 Rebecca Davis (27) & Edith MacHattie (43)

McMasters Bridge

2019 1:00:57 Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Parmalee Bridge

1994 1:06:04 Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Camp Ten Bridge

1994 1:07:44 Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

Mio Dam

2018 0:25:43 Rebecca Davis (28) & Edith MacHattie (44)

McKinley

1994 1:52:12 Connie Cannon (33) & Carrie Trudgeon (24)

4001 Bridge

2013 0:53:29

Alcona Dam

2018 0:38:08 Rebecca Davis (28) & Edith MacHattie (44)

Loud Dam

2019 1:55:51 Rebecca Davis (29) & Edith MacHattie (45)

Holly Reynolds (33) & Gloria Wesley (53)

Five Channels Dam 2018 0:25:54 Rebecca Davis (28) & Edith MacHattie (44) Cooke Dam

2017 1:02:29 Rebecca Davis (27) & Edith MacHattie (43)

Foote Dam

2017 1:14:34 Rebecca Davis (27) & Edith MacHattie (43)

Oscoda

2017 1:24:59 Rebecca Davis (27) & Edith MacHattie (43) Program Book

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Official Winners List Year 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968

Winning Team Allen Carr & Delbert Case Frank Bissonette & Hugh Bissonette Frank Bissonette & Hugh Bissonette Jay Stephan, Sr. & Ted Engel Jay Stephan, Sr. & Ted Engel Jay Stephan, Sr. & Ted Engel Don Feldhauser & Bernie Fowler Don Feldhauser & Bernie Fowler Don Feldhauser & Bernie Fowler Ralph Sawyer & Tom Gildersleeve Ralph Sawyer & Jerry Wagner Steve Kolonich & Larry Kindell Ralph Sawyer & Jerry Wagner Ed Wojahn & Sanford McGuire Victor Kindell & Larry Kindell Ralph Sawyer & Ron Hohman Ron Hohman & Irvin Peterson Ralph Sawyer & Irvin Peterson Ralph Sawyer & Irvin Peterson Ron Hohman & Gerald Lauwers Ralph Sawyer & Stan Hall Ralph Sawyer & Stan Hall

1969 1970 1971 1972 1973

Time

Margin of Victory

21:03:00

24:00

19:58:00

13:00

18:57:00

28:00

18:32:00

20:00

17:36:55

42:00

17:48:00

6:00

17:33:00

38:00

17:33:00

39:00

17:38:30

15:00

16:58:00

12:00

17:19:45

14:00

16:41:00

27:00

16:58:00

10:30

16:11:40

10:30

9:49:25*

1:55

15:25:17**

17:08

15:09:04**

10:53

15:06:05**

21:12

16:11:54

13:04

16:00:49

10:12

15:40:29**

6:17

15:31:43**

8:25

Second Place Team Jack Davis & Jay Stephan, Sr. Ted Engel & Jay Stephan, Sr. Gerald DeFour & Claude Gobiel Frank Bissonette & Hugh Bissonette Robert Fullerton & Hugh Bissonette Don Feldhauser & Bernie Fowler Ralph W. Sawyer & Eugene Roy Steve Kolonich & Larry Kindell Steve Kolonich & Larry Kindell Bernie Fowler & John Stephan Irvin Peterson & Tom Estes Ralph Sawyer & Tom Gildersleeve

15:42:00

4:00

15:36:40

3:20

15:20:50

32:34

14:56:20

31:19

Year 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985

Gary Kolonich & Ed Wojahn

1986

Ralph Sawyer & Irvin McGuire Ralph Sawyer & Ed Wojahn Gerald Lauwers & Stan Hall Gerald Lauwers & Stan Hall Pat Widing & Al Widing, Sr. Stan Hall & Al Widing, Sr. LeRoy Widing & Al Widing, Sr. Irvin Peterson & Steve Peterson Norm Crerar & Gib McEachron

1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996

NO RACE WAS HELD Luc Robillard & Claude Corbin Irvin Peterson & Steve Peterson Jerry Kellogg & Luc Robillard Jerry Kellogg & Luc Robillard

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Official Winners List

John Baker & Jack Kolka Jerry Kellogg & Jack Kolka John Baker & Jack Kolka John Buckley & Stan Hall

1997 1998 1999 2000

* Race was held from Camp Ten to Oscoda in 1961. ** Two-day race in 1962-63-64-67-68 (Day 1: Grayling to Mio. Day 2: Mio to Oscoda.) *** Race won as a result of a 10-minute penalty to Steve Landick & Solomon Carrière (14:37:28).

Program Book

Winning Team Jerry Kellogg & Jeff Kellogg Jerry Kellogg & Jeff Kellogg John Baker & John Schwartz Claude Corbin & Serge Corbin John Baker & Jay Stephan, Jr. Claude Corbin & Serge Corbin John Baker & Ron Williams John Baker & Ken Brown Butch Stockton & Brett Stockton Butch Stockton & Brett Stockton Butch Stockton & Solomon Carrière Butch Stockton & Brett Stockton Butch Stockton & Brett Stockton Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton Randy Drake & Al Rudquist Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton Serge Corbin & Solomon Carrière Serge Corbin & Solomon Carrière Patrick Lynch & Jim Harwood Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin

Time

Margin of Victory

14:40:09

35:08

14:59:07

6:59

15:14:10

13:10

15:17:42

5:00

15:06:26

10:55

14:40:29

0:06

14:48:31

20:23

14:29:01

21:14

14:38:27

5:01

14:38:36

23:23

14:20:40

16:11

14:35:53

7:23

14:30:38

5:12

14:34:32

9:03

14:20:00

4:01

14:38:18***

3:09

14:43:35

1:31

14:33:30

1:33

14:51:46

1:24

14:23:03

1:50

13:58:08

9:52

14:20:40

4:02

14:04:05

37:34

14:19:36

6:18

14:15:47

35:27

14:08:18

18:00

14:48:00

14:32

Second Place Team Claude Corbin & Serge Corbin Jay Stephan, Jr. & Bob Welsch Terry Jackman & Ken Brown Jerry Kellogg & Jeff Kellogg Claude Corbin & Serge Corbin John Baker & Ken Brown Terry Jackman & Ken Brown Al Rudquist & Brett Stockton John Baker & Tony Short John Baker & Tony Short Tony Short & Brett Stockton Tony Short & Steve Peterson Randy Drake & Eric McNett Tony Short & Eric McNett Randy Drake & Tim Triebold Jeff Kolka & Bill Torongo Bruce Barton & Solomon Carrière Jeff Kolka & Bill Torongo Bruce Barton & Tim Triebold Jeff Kolka & Bill Torongo Jeff Kolka & Bill Torongo Jeff Kolka & Bruce Barton Patrick Lynch & Jim Harwood Al Rudquist & Mike Vincent Patrick Lynch & Denis Marcouiller Ken Kolonich & Steve Kolonich John Sullivan & Louis Berthiaume

Continued on Page 33

31

Presented by:

Contributing Sponsor:

32

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Continued from Page 31

Masters Division Split Time Records

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Official Winners List

Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2018

0:41:12

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Stephan Bridge

2018

1:12:50

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Wakeley Bridge

2018

1:41:54

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

McMasters Bridge

2018

2:38:47

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Parmalee Bridge

1999

3:42:22

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Camp Ten Bridge

1999

4:47:10

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Year 2001 2002 2003

Mio Dam

1999

5:11:14

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

McKinley

2018

6:53:45

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

2004

4001 Bridge

2018

7:45:01

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Alcona Dam

1999

8:22:12

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

2005

1999 10:11:47

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Five Channels Dam 1999 10:35:44

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Loud Dam Cooke Dam

1999 11:36:10

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Foote Dam

1999 12:47:57

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Oscoda

1999 14:08:18

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

2nd Half

1999

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

7:13:08

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Masters Division Point-to-Point Time Records

2018

Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2018

0:41:12

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Stephan Bridge

2018

0:31:38

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Wakeley Bridge

1999

0:28:27

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

McMasters Bridge

1999

0:55:44

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Parmalee Bridge

1:03:18

Mio Dam

1999 2019 2021 1999

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42) Andrew Triebold (43) & Steve Lajoie (43) 1:03:58 Patrick Madden (41) & Steve Watson (49) 0:24:04 Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

McKinley

2018

1:41:49

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Camp Ten Bridge

4001 Bridge

1999

0:50:39

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Alcona Dam

1999

0:36:23

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

Loud Dam

2019

1:48:44

Andrew Triebold (43) & Steve Lajoie (43)

Five Channels Dam 1999

0:23:57

Jeff Kolka (40) & Serge Corbin (42)

0:58:59

Andrew Triebold (42) & Steve Lajoie (42)

Cooke Dam

2018

Foote Dam

2019

1:11:25

Andrew Triebold (43) & Steve Lajoie (43)

Oscoda

2009

1:18:21

Bruce Barton (52) & Connie Cannon (48)

2019

Winning Team Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Jim Harwood & Allen Limberg Andrew Triebold & Matthew Rimer Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Christophe Proulx & Ryan Halstead Christophe Proulx & Samuel Frigon Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

2020 2021

Program Book

Time

Margin of Victory

15:06:48

8:58

15:04:56

5:26

14:55:03

1:48

14:59:46

0:13

14:56:11

0:01

14:33:50

14:35

14:48:55

0:38

14:09:06

23:25

14:17:42

11:36

14:17:29

14:08

14:41:00

17:32

14:42:43

15:53

14:20:24

12:08

14:36:18

8:06

14:31:56

8:57

14:29:26

0:01

14:18:45

0:01

14:17:36

16:42

14:15:34

4:39

Second Place Team Tony Short & Denis Berthiaume Mo Harwood, Jr. & Matthew Rimer Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin Matthew Rimer & Andrew Triebold Rodney Halstead & Ryan Halstead Matt Streib & Steve Corlew Matt Streib & Steve Kolonich Matt Streib & Steve Corlew Steve Corlew & Bill Torongo Rodney Halstead & Ryan Halstead Josh Sheldon & Ryan Halstead Nick Walton & Christophe Proulx Nick Walton & Christophe Proulx Mathieu Pellerin & Guillaume Blais Andrew Triebold & Jacob DuBois Steve Lajoie & Guillaume Blais Christophe Proulx & Samuel Frigon Guillaume Blais & Samuel Frigon

NO RACE WAS HELD Jorden Wakeley & Matt Meersman

13:54:09 ~Record

13:28

Wesley Dean & Weston Willoughby

33

2022 AuSable River Festival & Canoe Marathon Schedule of Events July 22-31, 2022 in Grayling

FRIDAY, JULY.22.2022

9am Safety Meeting at the County Building EOC 5:30pm 12th Annual Car & Truck Show Cruise Night – 5:30pm Food & Refreshments, 7pm Start of Cruise at Northstar Auto Wash – Event Details, Contact Dan Migrants at 989.745.5880.

SATURDAY, JULY.23.2022

7-10am Pancake Breakfast at Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church, $7 all you can eat (benefits River House, Christian Help Center Food Pantry, Baby to Toddler Closet) 8am-3pm 36th Annual Classic Car & Truck Show on Michigan Ave (Registration 7–10am, $15/vehicle, Trophies 2:30pm) All are welcome to come and see the cars, Classic & Modern Muscle.

10am-4pm Farmers Market Vendors on the 100 Block of Michigan Ave. Spikes Challenge Schedule 8am Registration for all Spike’s Challenge Events will run from 8am until 2pm at the City Park Pavilion. These events include C-1 Race, C-2 Race, Junior and Fledgling Races, Mentor Races 9am Sprints for Starting Position of C-2 Race, Grayling City Park Pond 2pm Junior, Fledgling, Mentor races on the Pond 5pm Registration continues for all races at Joe Wakeley’s House for C-1 pre-race, Junior C-2 Race to Burton’s Landing. Please, No dogs in Joe’s Yard.

5:30pm Start of Junior C-2 Race to Burton’s Landing, beginning on Ingham St. 6pm Start of the C-1 race start at Ingham St.

SUNDAY, JULY.24.2022

Spikes Challenge Schedule 8:30am Line up of the C-2 Start of 34

the Spike’s Challenge on Ingham Hills and Arauco. More details to Street follow $20 per Business.

9am Start of the 2022 C-2 Spike’s FRIDAY, JULY.29.2022 Challenge 2pm Lunch and Awards Banquet at 6:30-10am Craft Show Vendor Set up in Grayling City Park the City Park Pavilion – bring a 10am-8pm 43rd Annual Arts & Crafts lawn chair.

Show in Grayling City Park MONDAY, JULY.25.2022 10am-8pm Paddler Play Zone Vendors Marathon MONDAY - Wear your and Activity booths on the 300 Favorite Marathon Shirt Block of Michigan Ave. #MarathonMonday, tag us with 11am-8pm Food Trucks/Food Vendors your hashtag & pictures @auson the 100 Block ableriverfestival on Facebook!

9am-Midnight AuSable Mainstage performances on the 200 Block TUESDAY, JULY.26.2022 of Michigan Ave. All performances 8am Safety Meeting at the County free to the public!

Building EOC 12pm-12am Brew Ave. opens in the 10am-2pm Kid’s Day in Grayling City AuSable Main Stage Area, need Park not be 21 to enter, you must be 21 10am-2pm Rock & Rest at Nature with a valid ID present to receive Center in Grayling City Park a wristband to purchase beer (change diapers/feed/rest) tickets!

5pm Da$h for Ca$h in Oscoda 2-4:30pm Time Trials for AuSable River Canoe Marathon at Penrod’s WEDNESDAY, JULY.27.2022 Canoe Livery 4-6pm Time Trials for AuSable River 2:45pm Special Olympics Canoe Canoe Marathon at Penrod’s Races at Penrod’s Canoe Livery Canoe Livery 4-7pm Grayling Eagles Annual Steak 5-8pm HUP Race at the Grayling City Out Dinner $12 with American Park Made band performing at 7pm Beer Tent all day THURSDAY, JULY.28.2022 2pm-5pm Canoe Sequester at the 12-7pm Craft Show Vendor Set up in middle school - NOT open to the Grayling City Park public 3-6:30pm Time Trials for AuSable River Canoe Marathon at Penrod’s 6pm Paddler Briefing at the Ramada Inn - NOT open to the public Canoe Livery 3pm-Midnight – AuSable Mainstage SATURDAY, JULY.30.2022 performances on the 200 Block 9am-Noon Canoe Sequestering Event of Michigan Ave. All performances at Middle School and not open to free to the public the Public 3pm-12am Brew Ave. opens in the 8-11am Lumberjack Breakfast hosted AuSable Main Stage Area, need

by Grayling Restaurant not be 21 to enter, must be 21 9am GRA’s 10K/5K (Road Running), with a valid ID present to receive starts at Hanson Hills Recreation a wristband to purchase beer Area. Registration Online only tickets!

9am-6pm 44th Annual Arts & Crafts 4:20pm Business Relays taking place Show at Grayling City Park at Penrod’s hosted by Hanson 9am-Midnight AuSable Mainstage 74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

performances on the 200 Block of Michigan Ave. All performances free to the public!

10am 3rd Annual Corn hole Tournament taking place in the AuSable Main Stage Area (9am Registration) 10am Tom Trenary Horseshoe Tournament at Grayling Eagles Club, burgers & hot dogs all day, beer tent and cash bar.

10am-8pm Paddler Play Zone Vendors and Activity booths on the 300 Block of Michigan Ave. 11am-8pm Food Trucks/Food Vendors on the 100 Block of Michigan Ave 12pm-12am Brew Ave. opens in the AuSable Main Stage Area, need not be 21 to enter, you must be 21 with a valid ID present to receive a wristband to purchase beer tickets!

12-9pm Grayling American Legion Beer Tent. $1 draft Bud Light. $2 Aluminum Bottles bud/Bud Light.

Full bar. $1 Jell-O shots. Hot dogs, brats, nachos, chips, pop, water available.

4pm AuSable River Festival Parade Downtown Grayling *New Route on James St. 6pm Pre-Race Program at Old AuSable Fly Shop 6:45pm Introduction of Paddlers at Old AuSable Fly Shop 7:45pm Posting of the Colors at Old AuSable Fly Shop 9pm Start of the 73rd Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon at the Old AuSable Fly Shop (paddling from Grayling to Oscoda) listen to 98.5 UPS, the Official Station of the ARCM, and the Flagship station of the ARCM Radio Network, for start to finish race coverage.

SUNDAY, JULY.31.2022

End of 73rd Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon in Oscoda – Leaders 11:30am to Finishers 4pm

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Course Map - Gra

Follow LIVE Results during race night

Crawford County-Stephan, Wakeley and McMasters bridges will be closed to all vehicle traffic during the race. Spectator vehicles will not be allowed to cross the river at these bridges.

Oscoda County-Parmalee Bridge will be closed to spectators but passable for vehicles. No portable lighting will be available. If you are viewing the race from here, there are good sites along the campground on the north side or at the public access site on the south.

Mio Dam-Spectators are not allowed on the spillway. There is a walkway from the MDOT parking area, south of M-72, under the bridge to the dam. You will not have to walk across the highway to get to the dam. Spectators must stay clear of the pathway and the put-in areas as the teams portage Mio Dam. 4001 Bridge-The U.S. Forest Service may issue tickets for parking in the lot at the boat launch site without the valid parking pass.

Alcona Dam-Only feeders and officials will be allowed into the dam parking lot. Spectators should park in the field on the north side of the river and walk across the bridge to the portage area.

Loud Dam-There will only be parking for feeders on one side of the road leading to the dam.

Only feeders and officials will be allowed into the dam parking lot.

Five Channels-Pedestrians and vehicles will not be permitted on the new bridge, but spectators are allowed on the old bridge. Parking in the dam parking lot is for feeders only. Spectators can park in a large field at the top of the hill on the south side of the river.

Whirlpool near Oscoda-Everyone must park in the parking lot — not at the boat launch. The U.S. Forest Service will issue tickets at this area.

Foote Dam-The dam will be closed to spectators but you can view the race from the new fishing platforms across the river.

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Leader’s Arrival Time* Map Location 1. Burton’s Landing 9:40 p.m 2. Stephan Bridge 10:15 p.

3. Wakeley Bridge 10:45 p.

4. McMasters Bridge 11:45 5. Parmalee Bridge 12:45 a.

6. Camp 10 Bridge 1:55 a.m 7. Mio Dam 2:15 a.m 8. McKinley Bridge 4:00 a.m 9. 4001 Bridge 5:00 a.m 10. Alcona Dam 5:30 a.m 11. Loud Dam 7:20 a.m 12. Five Channels Dam 7:45 13. Cooke Dam 8:45 a.m 14. Foote Dam 10:00 a.

15. Oscoda (finish) 11:15 a.m *All times are approximate

ayling to Oscoda

t at www.AuSableCanoeMarathon.org

Alcohol is prohibited on Consumers Energy property, including at the dams along the Marathon route. Also, no loitering will be allowed when crossing dams. These implementations are due to strict Homeland Security procedures. Please be respectful of the people who are enforcing these rules and procedures.

*

m. .m. .m.

5 p.m. .m. m. m. m. m. m. m. a.m. m. .m. m. e

EMERGENCY NUMBERS - DIAL 911 Crawford County Sheriff oSCoda County Sheriff alCona County Sheriff

Photos by Brian Connon & Mark Bialek

989-348-6341 989-826-3214 989-724-6271

hale area PoliCe ioSCo County Sheriff oSCoda area PoliCe

989-469-8241 989-362-6164 989-739-9111

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO CONSUMERS ENERGY FOR ITS SPONSORSHIPS, COOPERATION & USE OF ITS FACILITIES. Program Book

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

July 16th & 17th Proudly presented by:

Saturday July 16 - C-2 race from Cooke Dam to the finish line of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon, at the AuSable Inn. Registration begins at 7:00am at Cooke Dam, with the race starting at 9:00 a.m. The winning time is about 2.5 hrs.

There is an MCRA picnic following the C-2 race at the American Legion Pavilion. Donation proceeds go to benefit the MCRA Canoers Memorial on River Rd. Eating begins around 12:30 p.m. with awards following.

Sunday July 17 - C-1 Race. Registration at Childrens Park in AuSable starts at 8:00 a.m. The race starts at 10:00 a.m. at Childrens Park. The Race Course: Paddlers will race 2 laps from Childrens Park to round a buoy just downstream of the railroad trestle bridge and back. Winning time is about 1 hr.

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Seniors Division Split Time Records Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2016

0:46:46

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

Stephan Bridge

2016

1:21:55

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

Wakeley Bridge

2016

1:52:46

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

McMasters Bridge

2016

2:54:18

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

Parmalee Bridge

2021

4:00:27

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021

5:07:28

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Mio Dam

2021

5:33:58

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

McKinley

2021

7:22:19

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

4001 Bridge

2021

8:16:11

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Alcona Dam

2021

8:55:41

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

2021 10:50:22

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Five Channels Dam 2021 11:16:33

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Loud Dam Cooke Dam

2021 12:21:56

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Foote Dam

2021 13:38:28

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Oscoda

2021 15:00:42

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

2nd Half

2021

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

7:38:23

Seniors Division Point-to-Point Records Checkpoints

Year Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2016 0:46:46

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

Stephan Bridge

2016 0:35:09

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

Wakeley Bridge

2016 0:30:51

Russ Reker (52) & Mike Bradford (51)

McMasters Bridge

2021 0:59:39

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Parmalee Bridge

2021 1:04:31

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021 1:07:01

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Mio Dam

1997 0:25:53 Blaise St. Pierre (57) & Serge Rouleau (52)

McKinley

2021 1:48:21

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

4001 Bridge

1999 0:53:08

Robert Bradford (56) & Al Widing, Sr. (74)

Alcona Dam

2000 0:38:36 Blaise St. Pierre (60) & Pierre LaPointe (58)

Loud Dam

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2021 1:54:41

Eric Batway (58) & Mike Bradford (56)

Five Channels Dam 2015 0:26:01

Clark Kent (55) & Mike Bradford (50)

Cooke Dam

2013 1:03:50

Tom Trudgeon (54) & Doug Gillin (54)

Foote Dam

2009 1:14:33

Michael Garon (51) & Doug Gillin (50)

Oscoda

2021 1:22:03

Paul Olney (58) & Mike Fries (68)

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Veterans Division Split Time Records Checkpoints

Year

Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2019

0:51:56

Michael Garon (61) & Doug Gillin (60)

Stephan Bridge

2021

1:30:56

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Wakeley Bridge

2021

2:05:39

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

McMasters Bridge

2021

3:07:43

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Parmalee Bridge

2021

4:14:56

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021

5:23:15

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Mio Dam

2021

5:50:46

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

McKinley

2021

7:42:37

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

4001 Bridge

2021

8:36:56

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Alcona Dam

2021

9:19:35

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

2021 11:21:27

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Five Channels Dam 2021 11:50:57

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Loud Dam Cooke Dam

2021 12:59:29

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Foote Dam

2021 14:21:57

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Oscoda

2021 15:52:00

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

2nd Half

2021

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

8:09:23

Good Luck Paddlers!

#Hup All Night Veterans Division Point-to-Point Records Checkpoints

Year Time

Team (Ages)

Burton's Landing

2019 0:51:56

Michael Garon (61) & Doug Gillin (60)

Stephan Bridge

2021 0:38:42

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Wakeley Bridge

2021 0:34:43

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

McMasters Bridge

2021 1:02:04

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Parmalee Bridge

2021 1:07:13

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Camp Ten Bridge

2021 1:08:19

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Mio Dam

2011 0:26:35

Michael Fairchild (60) & Peter Heed (61)

McKinley

2021 1:51:51

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

4001 Bridge

2021 0:54:19

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Alcona Dam

2011 0:40:33

Michael Fairchild (60) & Peter Heed (61)

Loud Dam

2006 2:00:08

Robert Bradford (63) & Al Widing, Sr. (81)

Five Channels Dam 2019 0:27:16

Michael Garon (61) & Doug Gillin (60)

Cooke Dam

2011 1:07:24

Foote Dam

2021 1:22:28

Fred Mills (67) & Tim McClure (63)

Oscoda

2006 1:29:15

Robert Bradford (63) & Al Widing, Sr. (81)

Michael Fairchild (60) & Peter Heed (61)

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Family Style restaurant with a Full Service Menu + kids menu.

600 S. State Street Oscoda, MI

989-569-3363

OOcial Finish Line of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon 44

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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Paddle Fundraiser Returns The AuSable River International Canoe Marathon Committee is pleased to announce the return of Paddles For The Marathon. Last year was the first year for this fundraiser that showcased the talents of local artists who turned replica canoe paddles into one of a kind pieces of art. The paddles were displayed in local businesses in Grayling and Oscoda throughout the summer and were auctioned off the week after the Marathon. “The response from the artists, community and bidders around the event was overwhelming so we decided to bring the paddles back this year”, said Suzanne Schlachter, Co-Chair of the Grayling Committee.

“The paddles last year were amazing. It will be exciting to see what the artists create this year using our 2022 theme of People, Places and Paddles...Life on the AuSable.”

All proceeds from this year’s auction will go towards the Marathon Scholarship Program.

“Each year the Marathon Scholarship Committee awards four scholarships to high school seniors in Oscoda, Grayling, Mio and to a student outside the area that is connected to the race,” Schlachter said. “This year’s paddle auction will allow us to continue helping students who are furthering their education.”

The paddles will be on display from Memorial Day Weekend through August, 6th. The online auction will be open July 25th – August 7th. A list of the install locations, images of the paddles and auction link can be found on the Marathon website, www.ausablecanoemarathon.org/ paddles

Some of the paddles available for the 2022 auction.

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Rookie Reverence

Unique perspectives of first time Marathon competitors Cecili Bugge and Holly Orr at Paddler Introductions in Grayling.

By Ilene Geiss-Wilson The 74th running of the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon, scheduled for July 30 & 31, 2022, is a 120-mile non-stop canoe race from Grayling to Oscoda that attracts racers and spectators from around the U.S, Canada, and beyond.

Racers in the AuSable Canoe Marathon must be in top physical condition. They are paddling 60-70 strokes per minute for anywhere from 14-19 hours straight. You read that correctly – non-stop with no breaks; even in the dark. They are only allowed one small light on the front of their specialized racing canoes. Now imagine trying that for the very first time. Many racers don’t live in the area and can’t train on the AuSable; they can’t learn where the log jams are, the shallow spots or where the main stream seems to detour.

According to John Cherven, marathon volunteer since 1983, first-time racers or “Rookies”, are an important part of the Marathon. “They bring fresh energy, ensure the growth of the sport and bring good publicity, thereby attracting even more racers.”

There is a vetting process for first timers that involves answering questions about their skill level, what equipment they own, who their Feeding Crew will be and what past races they have participated in.

Cherven said, “Over the years, I have advised some potential racers that they expand their skill level by watching or participating in other races and training or talking with experienced paddlers prior to attempting the marathon.” One new marathon

applicant didn’t understand the importance of having proper nutrition and liquids throughout the race, and thought they could simply drink from the river. Another possible rookie didn’t know there was specialized equipment needed. John discusses the dangers of hypothermia or heat exhaustion.

Both are possible in the same race, depending on the weather. Fog can also creep in causing paddlers to lose their way or to see things that aren’t there. He said that racers are sometimes intimidated by the sheer length of the marathon and the need to paddle in the dark. There are hidden dangers in the river such as obstacles under the water, sandbars and sweepers (low-hanging branches). Cherven stated “The racers are like a big family, willing to help each other out, even though they are also competitors.”

Racers are plenty passionate about their sport and most of them love to talk about paddling regardless of their experience level or number of years paddling the marathon.

Texan Holly Orr said that 2021 was her first time visiting the area and the community was very welcoming.

Her racing partner, Cecili Bugge, also from Texas, writes that “the AuSable is one of the most beautiful rivers I have been on. It is way different than anything we have here in Texas. The towns and the people are all super nice and welcoming. They made us out of state racers and our crew feel truly welcomed. The support is wild from fellow competitors to the people just following along. Everyone is willing to give you some wisdom and support.” When asked about planning to race as a Rookie paddler, she recommends to “be prepared and do your research. Definitely do your research! As a rookie and an out of state racer, I knew going in I wanted to be as prepared as possible. I probably watched every video out there about the

marathon and asked as many questions as I could.

Even though I have experience in ultra- marathon canoe races, I knew this race would be completely different and I think the prep made me feel more comfortable and prepared.”

Wisconsin Rookie racer Dan Goltz, adds a touch of humor to his thoughts. He stated that a college buddy talked about the race, “but it seemed ridiculous and I knew that I never wanted to do something so foolish. Everyone working at the race and all the other competitors were so nice and helpful. It’s like one big family of pleasantly demented paddlers. Who else would race all that way?”

He continued stating, “I had no idea that you can paddle all night and half of the next day and still enjoy it. The whole experience was almost surreal. We were prepared to go through some rough stretches, but we got lucky and things never really sucked for either of us. It was so beautiful paddling down the river during the night, especially when the full moon came up.”

Even if the rookie teams do not finish the race, and even some very

Dan Goltz (Bow) and Judson Steinback (stern) crossing the finish line in Oscoda.

Photos by Crystal Brabant

experienced paddlers don’t, they are still winners in the eyes of the spectators and racing community.

They often are the most admired for even attempting the grueling 120 miles and often the most followed and supported. It has been proven on more than one occasion to never underestimate their determination, and they are key to keeping this paddling sport alive and growing.

#H up A ll N ight Program Book

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Jack Millikin Inc. EXCAVATING

SEPTIC

MASONRY

Portable Toilet Rentals Handicap Units Hand Wash Sinks All Units Have Hand Sanitizer Dispensers

CLEAN!

(989) 348-8411 • www.JackMillikin.com

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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Good Luck Paddlers, Spectators & Sponsors!

AuSable Township Welcomes You!

Enjoy your visit & come back soon!

4420 N. US 23 Oscoda, MI 48750 989-739-9169 • www.ausabletownship.net 58

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Ronee’s flowers & Nursery Corner of US-23 and F-30 Greenbush

989-724-5393

Open all year Florist - Gift shop - bird feed

All your gardening needs Fertilizer - Hardware All types of soil including Bulk Rock - Soil Statuary - Yard Art - Fairy Gardening www.roneesflowers.com Like us on Facebook!

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Most Top 10 Finishes Rank

Paddler

Wins

Top 3s

Top 5s

Top 10s

Last

1

Rick Joy

0

7

19

26

2008

2

Serge Corbin

18

22

22

22

2005

3

Ken Kolonich

0

3

9

21

2015

4

Jeff Kolka

9

18

20

20

2005

5(t)

Jim Harwood

2

5

14

19

2006

5(t)

Tony Short

0

8

11

19

2009

5(t)

Bill Torongo

0

9

14

19

2012

8(t)

Steve Kolonich

0

5

9

18

2011

8(t)

Andrew Triebold

12

16

17

18

2019

10

Steve Lajoie

11

13

17

17

2019

11

Jack Kolka

0

5

11

16

1981

12(t)

John Baker

4

12

13

15

1990

12(t)

Ted Kolka

0

1

6

15

2007

14(t)

Ralph Sawyer

8

12

14

14

1968

14(t)

Jerry Kellogg

4

8

13

14

1982

14(t)

Brett Stockton

9

12

13

14

2021

14(t)

Nick Walton

0

3

7

14

2021

18(t)

Steven Kolonich

1

5

8

13

1965

18(t)

Butch Stockton

5

8

11

13

1987

20(t)

Jack Kent

0

3

8

12

1968

20(t)

Pete Mead

0

1

3

12

2021

22(t)

Bob Welsch

0

3

6

11

1981

22(t)

Al Widing, Sr.

0

5

9

11

1988

22(t)

Jeff Kellogg

2

4

7

11

1990

22(t)

Randy Drake

1

4

7

11

1998

22(t)

Bruce Barton

0

3

7

11

2007

22(t)

John Sullivan

0

3

7

11

2007

28(t)

Bernie Fowler

3

6

9

10

1956

28(t)

Irvin Peterson

4

9

10

10

1971

28(t)

Verlen Kruger

0

0

3

10

1980

28(t)

Dave Shepherd

0

5

9

10

1992

28(t)

Ryan Halstead

1

6

7

10

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

989.736.8890 411 W. Miller St., Box 308 Lincoln, MI 48742 Fax: 989.736.7203

GGGGGGGG EEEEEE #3465

SSSSS BBBBBB BBBB & HHHHH SSSS TTTTTTTTTT

July 29th & 30th

Friday: Steak Burger Bash: BILLINGAR’S Ultimate

Sponsored By:

Steak Burger with all the Fixins’ 4-7 p.m. or till GONE! $10.00 per person

7:00 Live Band: “LIMELIGHT” Classic Rock/Blues with Edge

Saturday: 2 Person Horse Shoe Tournament

Double elimination | Starts at 10am | $10 per person with CASH PRIZES!

Food Available. $1 Drafts

Beer Tent • Friday & Saturday Cash Bar

Open to Public

Grayling Eagles Aerie 3465 602 Huron Street • Turn at Burger King (east)

(989) 348-5287

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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Remembering a Behind-the-Scenes Marathon Supporter

Photo courtesy of the Myles family

By Ryan Matthews Bruce Myles. Possibly a name that many canoe racing fans are not familiar with. But if you’ve ever watched the Marathon teams cross the finish line, or have seen photos of the Marathon or the Curley Memorial Canoe Race, chances are you’ve witnessed and shared in Bruce’s behind-the-scenes influence on the Marathon.

One place you could count on Bruce being during Marathon weekend was under the Mill Street Bridge, taking photos as the paddlers crossed the finish line.

As Oscoda Press Editor Jason Ogden wrote in the Oscoda Press, “every summer he would be perched in the best spot under the [Mill Street] bridge, with his film

cameras, tripod, rolls of film and often his grandson, to get shots of the Marathon finishers coming in from their 120-mile race from Grayling to Oscoda.”

Bruce’s passion for the race and for photography was easy to notice. Not long after I became the new Marathon record keeper in 2011, Bruce presented me with dozens of photos, slides, and negatives from several races, some dating back to the mid1980’s. He provided them to me with the mention of thousands more that he had in storage. This treasure trove of Marathon photo-history was outstanding and impressive. Jason Ogden can also attest to Mr. Myles’ expertise for photography and love of the race; “I can say as someone whose career involves taking photos for a living, using modern digital equipment, the fact that Bruce could get amazing shots – more often than not better than my shots – with equipment that a lot of photographers considered antiquated and just antique, always impressed me. For those who know film photography, the fact that Bruce could get awesome shots consistently with his 35mm film single lens reflect camera, with a 300mm telephoto lens, meant that he knew business when it came to taking photos. He had a bond with his camera equipment that meant he knew what the heck he was doing to get really great, non-overexposed shots at high noonish on a July summer day. Just that alone told me he was passionate about the race.” Bruce could certainly capture the looks of jubilation and exhaustion on paddlers’ faces as few could. As such, several canoe racing publications, articles, social media & blog posts, and even trading cards have used his photos.

Perhaps Bruce’s most significant contribution to the race was the generous use of his property at the finish

835 S. State St. #1 Oscoda, MI

Real Estate and Property Management www.LighthouseRealtyOscoda.com 66

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

line in AuSable Township. The property, famously adorned as “Harry’s Landing” in the honor of the late Harry Curley, borders the eastern riverbank of the AuSable River and AuSable Township’s Finish Line Park, immediately upstream of the Mill Street Bridge.

Thousands of people have traversed his property every year without even knowing. The use of this property has been crucial for the success and growth of the race. After Bruce’s passing earlier this year, it is my sincerest hope that this property comes to be known as “Bruce & Harry’s Landing.”

Bruce’s efforts and passion for the race have long been recognized and appreciated, and the Marathon Committee elected him into the AuSable River Canoe Marathon Hall of Fame in 2013. And though he was never a Marathon canoe racer, the Michigan Canoe Racing Association is set to honor him by adding his name to the Canoer’s Memorial Monument during a ceremony scheduled for this September.

The next time you are watching the paddlers cross the finish line, take a moment to reflect and give thanks to the countless number of people like Bruce Myles, who have directly and indirectly helped make the AuSable River Canoe Marathon a Photo by Jason Ogden success each year. of the Oscoda Press

Program Book

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TOP 26 FASTEST MARATHONS THRU 2021 TIME YEAR PLACE

115 Newman St. Units 1 East Tawas, MI (989) 310-8600

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PADDLERS

1

13:54:09

2021

1st

Jorden Wakeley & Matt Meersman

2

13:58:08

1994

1st

Serge Corbin & Solomon Carrière

3

14:04:05

1996

1st

Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin

4

14:07:37

2021

2nd

Wesley Dean & Weston Willoughby

5

14:08:00

1994

2nd

Jeff Kolka & Bill Torongo

6

14:08:18

1999

1st

Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin

7

14:09:06

2008

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

8

14:10:25

1994

3rd

Rick Joy & John Hollands

9

14:11:01

2021

3rd

Chris Issendorf & Logan Mynar

10

14:12:34

1994

4th

Patrick Lynch & Jim Harwood

11

14:14:11

2021

4th

Mike Davis & Shane MacDowell

12

14:15:34

2019

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

13

14:15:47

1998

1st

Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin

14

14:15:51

2021

5th

Pete Mead & Carson Burmeister

15

14:17:29

2010

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

16

14:17:33

2021

6th

Ryan Zaveral & Matt Gabriel, Jr.

17

14:17:36

2018

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

18

14:17:42

2009

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

19

14:18:45

2017

1st

Christophe Proulx & Samuel Frigon

20

14:18:46

2017

2nd

Steve Lajoie & Guillaume Blais

21

14:19:36

1997

1st

Jeff Kolka & Serge Corbin

22

14:20:00

1988

1st

Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton

23

14:20:13

2019

2nd

Guillaume Blais & Samuel Frigon

24

14:20:24

2013

1st

Andrew Triebold & Steve Lajoie

25

14:20:40

1984

1st

Butch Stockton & Solomon Carrière

26

14:20:40

1995

1st

Patrick Lynch & Jim Harwood

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

From Start to Finish, We’ve Got you Covered!

.

Welcome to..

2022 Au Sable River Canoe Marathon and the

From the Crawford County Elected Officials: Kate Wagner

County Treasurer

Sandy Moore Clerk/Register

Shawn Kraycs County Sheriff

Sierra Koch

Prosecuting Attorney

Colin Hunter

Circuit Court Judge

George Mertz

Circuit Court Judge

Monte Burmeister Judge of Probate

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Shelly Pinkelman

County Commissioner

Duncan Gray

County Commissioner

Jamie McClain

County Commissioner

Phil Lewis

County Commissioner

Laurie Jamison

County Commissioner

Carey Jansen

County Commissioner

Sherry Powers

County Commissioner

69

Eyelash Extensions

For a Day or a Lifetime www.OscodaChamber.com

HAL’S MASONRY, INC. EST. 1993

Block · Brick · Stone · Stamped Concrete Concrete Countertops · Hearths & Mantels

989.348.8179

WWW.HMICCT.COM

6811 M-93 · Grayling, MI 49738 70

74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

bleas@hmicct.com Licensed & Insured

Oscoda-AuSable Chamber of Commerce Community Events The Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon July 16-17, 2022

Encampment Wurtsmith Air Museum email@wurtsmithairmuseum.org

JULY 3 Paul Bunyan Challenge Races www.3disciplines.com

12-13 Rockfest Michigan-made original rock bands fundraiser 5pm-10pm Friday Noon-10:30pm Saturday Veterans Memorial Park 4000 N. Skeel Ave. 17-21 Alcona County Fair 854 N. Barlow Rd. Lincoln, MI 989-736-6169

4 Parade, Community Picnic & Fireworks 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com

MAY 13-15 Women’s Spring Wellness Weekend Camp Nissokone YMCA camp@ymcadetroit.org 21 Armed Forces Day Wurtsmith Air Museum Reopens 27-30 Memorial Day Family Camp Camp Nissokone YMCA camp@ymcadetroit.org

JUNE 3 Huron Forest Camp CedarRidge Reopens www.campcedarridge.org 3-5 Villages of Oscoda Homeowners Yard Sales office@voohoa.net 17-18 Masters Walleye Circuit Tournament Lake Huron in Oscoda www.masterswalleyecircuit.com 25-26 38th Annual Art on the Beach 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday Oscoda Beach Park 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com 25-26 Welcome Home Weekend & WWII

16 Wurtsmith Air Museum Copeland Memorial Golf Tournament Lakewood Shores Golf Course email@wurtsmithairmuseum.org 16-17 The Curley Memorial Canoe Race riverjustin@gmail.com 20 Hurry Up & Paddle (or Sink) Canoe Race 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com 21 Blind Folded Canoe Race 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com 25-30 Iosco County Fair County Fairgrounds, Hale info@ioscocountyfair.com 26 Da$h for the Ca$h Canoe Race contact@ausablecanoemarathon.org 30-31 AuSable River Canoe Marathon Longest non-stop cane race in the world contact@ausablecanoemarathon.org

AUGUST TBA Battle for the Paddle Scholarship Golf Challenge 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com

20-21 Fly-In & Breakfast Wurtsmith Air Museum email@wurtsmithairmuseum.org 26-28 Michigan Crossroads Council Boy Scouts of America Aviation Camporee Wurtsmith Air Museum email@wurtsmithairmuseum.org

SEPTEMBER 2-5 Labor Day Weekend Family Camp Camp Nissokone YMCA camp@ymcadetroit.org 16-18 Annual Paul Bunyan Days Festival Furtaw Field 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com 23-25 Women’s Fall Wellness Weekend Camp Nissokone YMCA camp@ymcadetroit.org

OCTOBER 1 21st Lions Club Fall Arts & Crafts Show Oscoda Area High School 989-739-3911 president@oscodalions.org 22 Fall Harvest Block Party on Dwight Street Downtown Oscoda 989-739-7322

Program Book

director@oscodachamber.com

DECEMBER 3 Northern Lights Christmas Parade Downtown Oscoda 989-739-7322 director@oscodachamber.com

Throughout the Summer May-September Veterans Coffee Hour Wurtsmith Air Museum 9:30am 4th Thurs. of the month May-October NE MI Regional Farm Market Shoreline Park AuSable 8am-1pm Wednesdays www.getitfresh.org June-August Bike Night on Dwight Street Office Lounge & Grill Thursdays 989-739-3388 June 30-August 25 Rotary of Oscoda Concerts on the Beach Oscoda Beach Park Band Shell 7pm Thursdays June-October Cardio Drumming Oscoda Beach Park 9am July-August Free Movies by the Pier Oscoda Beach Park Wednesdays at Dusk 989-739-0900

Year Round Yoga Classes To the Moon & Back www.tothemoonOscoda.com Oscoda Writers Group Robert J. Parks Library Tuesdays 1:30-3:30pm 989-739-9581 71

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74th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon

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