2024 Spectator Guide - AuSable River Canoe Marathon by AuSable River Canoe Marathon

Spectator Guide

The Races Within The Race

By Ryan Matthews

This July, North America’s best paddlers will face-off on the AuSable River for their share of $55,000 in cash and prizes! The 76th running of the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon is shaping up to be one of the greatest in its storied history, as over 200 paddlers from 20 U.S. States and four Canadian Provinces will take to the water at 9 p.m. on July 27th.

Thirteen-time champion Steve Lajoie will not be returning this year, leaving the door open for at least one new winning paddler. Wesley Dean,

the other half of last year’s winning team, is racing in canoe #02 with 2016 Champion Ryan Halstead. They are one of the favorites to win and could become only the second All-Michigan team to win the Marathon since 1986.

Among the other challengers for the top spot will be Mike Davis of Michigan and 2022

A near-record number of Mixed teams will be competing in the 76th Annual Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon. Defending champions Eve Chamberland of Quebec and Michael Schlimmer of New York, pictured last year at Cooke Pond, are back to try to become only the sixth Mixed team in the race’s history to win back-to-back titles. They are among the many teams competing in a “race within the race.” (Photo provided by Consumers Energy)

Champion Guillaume Blais of Quebec in canoe #55. Davis and Guillaume finished third last year after making a record-breaking late surge between Five Channels Dam and Oscoda. (see page seven)

‘Au Sable’ wins Emmy

Consumers Energy received one of television’s highest honors when its docuseries “Au Sable” won the 2024 Emmy for Outstanding Sports Documentary at the Michigan chapter’s annual awards presentation June 15.

The three-part series, which aired on YouTube and local public access stations, highlighted the history of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon and the meaning it holds for the community. Consumers Energy has long been a primary sponsor of the event, and the docuseries was filmed and edited by two Consumers Energy coworkers – Justin Garant and Darren Clevenger-Grimsley –and hosted by famed sportscaster George Blaha. The docuseries beat out pieces from Bally Sports and the Detroit Lions to take home the trophy.

“There are few opportunities for us to support an event that touches as many aspects of the community as the AuSable River Canoe Marathon,” said Angela Thompkins, chief diversity officer and vice president of community affairs for Consumers Energy. “Not only does it provide us an opportunity

CELEBRATING AN EMMY Justin Garant (left) and Darren ClevengerGrimsley pose with the 2024 Emmy for Outstanding Sports Documentary. The pair filmed and edited the docuseries and were part of the team that made it possible.

to showcase Michigan’s beauty on an international stage, but it consistently provides an incredible economic boost for the region and brings people from all backgrounds together. We are incredibly proud of the work Darren, Justin and the entire docuseries team from Consumers Energy and the AuSable River Canoe Marathon did to highlight how important this race is to Michigan, and grateful for the recognition of that work.”

Members of the Consumers Energy and AuSable River Canoe Marathon who made the docuseries possible include Justin Garant, Darren Clevenger-Grimsley, Brian Preuss, Tom Lambert and Rich Castle of Consumers Energy and Phil Weiler, Steve Southard, Kate Reitz, Kathy Erickson and Ryan Matthews of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon.

The AuSable River Canoe Marathon has been a staple of the northern Michigan community for 76 years. The 120-mile non-stop overnight canoe race hosted the last weekend in July starts Saturday night in Grayling, with two-person teams making a LeMans-style run to the river with their canoes, and ends 14 to 19 hours later in Oscoda on Sunday. The Marathon is the middle leg of marathon canoe racing’s prestigious Triple Crown, and brings thousands of fans and competitors to the state each year. “The positive feedback from our fans

(see page eight)

Good Luck Paddlers

Follow the Marathon

The Races Within The Race

(continued from page one)

Also expected to be competing for a podium finish are Ryan Zaveral of New York and Weston Willoughby of Michigan in canoe #99, as well as Ryan Stepka of Quebec and Carson Burmeister of Michigan in canoe #08, and Daniel Medina of Michigan and Logan Mynar of Texas in canoe #97.

2021 Champion and Marathon Record Holder Matt Meersman of Indiana is racing again in canoe #63, teamed this year with Jake Crotser from South Carolina. The team is highly likely to be amid the Top 10 finishers.

For the Mixed Division, a near-record number of Mixed teams will be competing. Defending champions Eve Chamberland of Quebec and Michael Schlimmer of New York are back to try to become only the sixth Mixed team in the race’s history to win back-to-back titles.

On their heels will be the strong team of Ivan English and Edith MacHattie, both of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Edith is a former Mixed champion, and Ivan has a third-place finish on his résumé.

Expect Ed Curley of New York and Sarah Lessard of Quebec in canoe #64, and Lydia Huelskamp of Missouri and Andy Hall of Massachusetts in canoe #80 to be amongst the top Mixed teams as well.

In the Women’s Division, two-time Women’s Champion Kaitlin Mynar is back this year in canoe #92, racing with Shannon Issendorf, a 25th-place finisher in 2022 and 2023. The Texas ladies will face formidable competition from Michelle Laprade of Quebec and Cecili Bugge of Michigan in canoe #91.

The Texas team of Mollie Binion and rookie paddler Kim Kaiser in canoe #41, and the Michigan sister team of Emily Short and Josie VanderVeen in canoe #24 round out the Women’s Division.

The Masters Division (both paddlers aged 40+) is shaping up to be one of the strongest races-within-the-race. A near-record number of Masters teams will be competing, with Patrick Madden of New York and Colin Hunter of

Michigan in canoe #22 the favorites to win the division.

In the Seniors Division (both paddlers aged 50+), three-time Seniors champions Seth Miller and Stephen Miller of Massachusetts are back this year in canoe #74. However, the Mixed team of Ivan English and Edith MacHattie could very well beat the brothers from Massachusetts and claim the Seniors title. Trevor Robinson of Saskatchewan and Michael Fries of New York, and Greg Zophy and Maria Schilling of Minnesota should be part of the top Seniors teams too.

The Veterans Division (both paddlers aged 60+) will feature the team of Dan Mecklenburg of Ohio and Jon Webb of Michigan in canoe #57. Jon and Dan will attempt to become the first Veterans team to win back-toback-to-back Veterans championships.

A rare occurrence is happening this year as three generations of the same family are competing. Returning after a five-year hiatus is 12-time Marathon Champion Andrew Triebold, racing with his daughter, Nico, in canoe #01. Andrew’s son, Owen Triebold, is racing with Jacob Hartman in canoe #05, with both making their first Marathon start. Also returning from a long hiatus is Andrew’s father, “Turbo” Tim Triebold. Tim hasn’t raced since the 2000 Marathon, but he is back this year in an attempt to earn this Iron Paddler Award, which is awarded for the successful completion of ten pro Marathons. In addition to Tim, his partner Mary Schlimmer-Willoughby, and several other paddlers such as Brandon Gerardy, Stephen Leppard, Wade Binion and Sarah Lessard will be attempting to earn their Iron Paddler Award.

As of the writing of this article, 50 rookie paddlers will be attempting to complete their first challenge of the AuSable River; one shy of the post-1947 record of 51 rookie paddlers.

Best of luck to the rookie paddlers braving their first challenge, and to all the paddlers this year! See you all in Oscoda!

(Left) Paddling toward the Mio Dam during the 75th Annual Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon, Christopher Proulx and Ryan Halstead (02) hold a slim lead over Mike Davis and Guillaume Blias (55, middle) and Wesley Dean and Steve Lajoie (98). Dean and Lajoie went on to win last year’s race. Lajoie is not returning this year, and Dean is teaming up with Halstead and the pair are expected to be among this year’s favorite to win the Marathon.

(Below) Pictured from the Westgate Scenic Overlook of Loud Pond on the AuSable River, Eve Chamberland of Quebec and Michael Schlimmer of New York (78) race alongside Travis Mecklenburg and Austin Weiler (90) during the 2023 Marathon. (Photo provided by

(Photo provided by Consumers Energy)

Consumers Energy)

Then and Now: The Evolution of one of the Greatest Races on Earth

The Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon is not only one of the greatest races on Earth, it also is one of North America’s longest-running Marathon canoe races. First staged in 1947, the ARCM has a storied history. Having observed the seventy-fifth (75th) edition of The Marathon in 2023, here’s a look at how some elements of the race have changed through the years.

Canoes and Paddles

When The Marathon first started in 1947, canoes from companies such as Dowcraft and Old Town Canoe were common. It was actually in a borrowed 17-foot Old Town canoe that Howard Brubaker and Percy Jocks tested the idea for what was then thought to be a 240-mile race, but is now known to be a 120-mile race.

Canoes in the early days were often 16 to 18 feet long and, depending on the material used to construct it, these boats weighed anywhere from 40-100 pounds. Popular building materials at the time included wood and canvas, various metals and fiberglass.

As marathon canoe racing became more popular in the 1950’s, canoes 20 to 30 feet long started to appear at races. The longer, sleeker designs

dramatically increased the potential top-end speed. This development spurred creation of the first official “canoe specifications” as races in some regions of the U.S. and Canada began to set limits on the lengths of the canoes.

Today, C-2 (two-person) marathon racing canoes can be a maximum 18 feet, 6 inches in length and 33 inches at the widest point. Most are constructed of very lightweight carbon fiber material, bringing the average weight of an unloaded canoe to 29-35 pounds. A very detailed set of official C-2 canoe specifications now governs modern boat design in North American marathon canoe racing.

Paddle design and construction has also evolved through the years. In the 1950’s paddles were straight, carved out of wood, about 60 inches long and 9 inches wide, and weighed 3 to 4 pounds. Paddle-blade width gradually increased into the 1960’s and very large paddle blades became popular as it was thought that “moving more water” with each paddle stroke was better.

In the early 1970’s, the bentshaft paddle was introduced. When combined with more narrow pad-

‘Au Sable’ wins Emmy

(continued from page one)

about the ‘Au Sable’ documentary has been overwhelming,” said AuSable River Canoe Marathon spokesperson Phil Weiler. “All of us connected with The Marathon are grateful to the Consumers Energy team for creating this outstanding look at one of the greatest races on Earth.”

“We are just days away from 76th edition of this world class event that attracts the top marathon canoe racers from throughout North America and around the world,” Weiler continued.

“Excitement here in the AuSable River valley is building and we can’t wait for the 76th!”

Consumers Energy has been a sponsor of The Marathon for 12 years, and among many annual components of the sponsorship, hosts a free pancake breakfast for spectators and community members in Oscoda every Sunday morning as crowds wait for paddlers to cross the finish line. The Consumers

Energy 76th AuSable River Canoe Marathon is July 27-28 this year. For information, visit www.ausablecanoemarathon.org or on social channels @ausablemarathon.

To view the Emmy Winning “Au Sable” docuseries, head to the AuSable Canoe Marathon YouTube Channel at www.YouTube.com/@ausable marathon.

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation contributes to the growth and strengthening of Michigan communities by investing in what’s most important — our people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2023, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees and retirees contributed more than $11 million to Michigan nonprofits. For information, visit www.Consumers Energy.com/foundation.

dle blades of about 8”, the modern bent-shaft paddle design gave rise to the concept of quicker, more-efficient paddle strokes. Today’s paddles are made of carbon fiber, making them exponentially lighter than their wooden predecessors, weighing in at as little as 8 ounces. Racers today tend to choose the length of their paddle based on their height and the water depth they will use the paddle in; paddle lengths can range from 42-62 inches.

The evolution of racing canoe and paddle design and construction continues, with new materials making their debut and design tweaks potentially creating the slight competitive edge sought by virtually all top-notch marathon canoe racing competitors.

Training and Nutrition

Paddlers in the AuSable River Canoe Marathon do a lot to prepare their bodies and minds for the grueling 120-mile race, and how training gets done has changed a lot in the nearly 80 years since the first Marathon in 1947.

Paddlers have always strived to accumulate “hours in the boat” but until the late 1980’s most hours were paddled in C-2 racing canoes with a

partner. Only in the past few decades have C-1 canoes (1-paddler solo) become common enough for most paddlers to own and use them.

According to veterans of the sport, paddlers aim to have one hour in the boat for every mile of their targeted race. That means 70 hours of training in the boat before Memorial Day weekend and the 1st leg of the Triple Crown - New York’s General Clinton Canoe Regatta - and then 120 hours of training time in the boat before The Marathon. The best paddlers in the world often double training time for The Marathon.

But paddlers don’t want to peak too early in the year or burn themselves out, so they often mix in other exercises like weight training, running, cross country skiing, or cycling (Peloton) to their training regimens. This is especially important in the coldest parts of the winter. In recent years, a sizable contingent of paddlers gathers together for a winter training camp in Florida where they log dozens of hours over a week of friendly training and competition.

Cell phones and social media have simplified training planning and coordination. Before the early 2000’s,

AuSable Marathon Scholarship Winners

Established in January, 2017, the AuSable River Canoe Marathon Scholarship Program now presents four scholarships each year – one to a graduating senior at Oscoda, Mio and Grayling High Schools, respectively, and the fourth to a Marathon paddler who is currently pursuing a degree or enrolled in a trade school or to the son, daughter or grandchild of a Marathon paddler who is a graduating senior.

The committee solicits donations and holds several fundraisers in order to award the scholarships each year. All applicants must be enrolled in a two-year or fouryear college degree program or enrolled to attend an approved trade school. All four awards are equal amounts. The amount awarded depends on the success of the Committee’s fundraising activities but will never be less than $250. The scholarship selection is based on a combination of community service and academic performance.

Emma Hofacer, Oscoda Oscoda High School Emma will be attending Michigan State University to major in Human Biology.

Kalli Fuhr, Fairview Mio Ausable High School Kalli will be attending Michigan State University to major in Social Work.

Shelby Swander, Grayling Grayling High School Shelby will be attending Michigan State University to major in Agribusiness Management.

George Werderich, Yorkville, IL Paddler Winner

George’s father is Marathon paddler Wally Werderich. George finished the ARCM last year with his dad and they are again paddling together in boat #95 this year. He will be attending Waubonsee Community College to study Unarmed Aerial Systems.

(Above) 1962 Marathon - Father & Son Team of Steven Kolonich (42) & Ken Kolonich (16) - 4th Place - 16:00:52 (2 Day Race). (Below) Ken Kolonich is pictured in the 2009 Marathon, racing with his son, Steve.

Then and Now: The Evolution of one of the Greatest Races on Earth

planning an individual training run or a group training event was more cumbersome; most training had to be scheduled days in advance. Modern technology has significantly made communication easier and more efficient.

In addition to training the body, paddlers must learn how to fuel their bodies to meet their goals. Nutrition science has come a long way since the 1940’s, and the diet of competitive paddlers has evolved with it. The lighter you are the faster you are, so paddlers often learn to cut out excess and empty calories. Gone are alcohol, ice cream and popcorn. In are protein shakes, supplements and clean, fresh meals. Paddlers often prepare for the race by eating their planned AuSable Marathon meals to fuel training sessions and test how their body breaks down different fuels under cardiovascular stress.

Of course, when the race season ends, those sacrifices end for many paddlers too. One paddler shared a story of eating a whole 20-count Chicken McNuggets meal on the way out of Oscoda after finishing the race, “Best darn thing I’ve ever eaten!” Many paddlers can be seen sipping their favorite beer right on the banks of the AuSable in Oscoda post-race, and a visit to the ice cream parlor after the Oscoda awards banquet is another favorite paddler stop.

Feeder Crews

One of the most critical elements for all AuSable Marathon teams is their feeder crew. Not only do they provide food, drinks, flashlights, clothes, paddles, medicine, sunscreen and whatever else might be necessary, they are also the biggest cheerleaders for their team.

“Feed teams are like NASCAR pit crews,” says AuSable Marathon legend and nine-time champion Jeff Kolka, invaluable in the support they give and their ability to be ready for anything. Even though you might get yelled at for placing a blanket in the wrong spot at a portage, just ask Jeff Kolka, feeder crews will move mountains to respond to any requests or requirements.

A story shared by Stuart Fowler, whose dad, Bernie Fowler, and partner, Don Feldhauser, were AuSable Marathon Champs in 1953-54-55, illustrates how things have progressed since the early years. In their time, as access along the river was rustic and limited, Bernie and Don would carry most of the needed supplies with them in the canoe

right from the start of the race.

Powdered protein supplements were mixed with fruit juice or river water as needed. They ate peaches and homemade fruit cocktail. Sometimes they ate shredded beef sandwiches out of a bag.

Before the days of Ziploc bags, paddlers would wrap sandwiches in wax paper. Some even used Mason jars before Tupperware was popular. Ginger ale was on standby for the unexpected upset stomach.

Today, while many paddlers prefer to stick to just liquids, others have a more “normal” eating regimen. Popular options include a sandwich with the crust cut off, and fruit such as bananas, grapes, melon and berries. Sometimes a hot cup of chicken noodle soup sounds good, or possibly pudding in different flavors.

Since the 1980’s, most racers have relied on prewrapped, portable sports energy gels and “goo’s” to deliver carbohydrates. Many high-energy, highcarb, high–protein foods and drinks help nourish the paddlers down the river. Everything must be easy to eat while on the go in a race where every second matters. Each paddler has their own favorite foods and supplements, and the feeders make sure they get delivered.

In recent years, feed teams have become highly creative with their strategies to deliver the goods and services to the teams, to be easily recognized among many other feeders who gather at popular feed locations. Today, virtually all of the teams have colorful custom-designed shirts. Enterprising feed crews have created very imaginative ways of wearing neon glow lights and illuminated signs so that their paddlers can recognize them in the river, in the darkness.

Other feed crews incorporate walkie-talkies to communicate from the top of the dams to the bottom of portages which are an opportunity for the paddlers and feeders to communicate. Without consistent cell-phone service, feeders have created ways to get their jobs done and fire up their teams.

While care and feeding of the teams during The Marathon has changed and improved significantly through the decades, one thing has stayed the same: The feeder crews are crucial to success. The feeder crew will wait for their team at every checkpoint and feed location. They will be ready to assist their team in every way possible that is allowed by the rules. And, when their team crosses the finish line in Oscoda, their feeder crew will be there waiting for them, cheering on their paddlers with every ounce of energy they have left.

The Format of the Race

When thinking of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon (ARCM) in recent years, a few defining characteristics generally come to mind:

- The LeMans-style running start, with the teams carrying their canoes to the river

- The ARCM staged during last full weekend in July

- A Saturday 9 p.m. start with teams paddling all night long to arrive in Oscoda on Sunday morning.

This has not always been the format of the race. There have been many dates and starting times used during the 76-year history of the Marathon, with most of the changes being implemented in an effort to accommodate tourists and fans, communities, paddlers and other races.

When Howard Brubaker and Frank Davis first chatted about holding a canoe race from Grayling to Oscoda, it was to be held after Labor Day as a way to draw tourists to the area after the peak summer vacation period ended. For 14 years - from 1947 to 1960 - the race was held on weekends in August or September and start times for these races were not consistent. In 1952 and 1953, the race began at midnight. Several years saw start times in the early afternoon, while other races began at 9 or 10 p.m. During the early years and until 1968, the teams were released individually in timed intervals

at the start line; there was not a mass start.

In 1961, the race experienced changes once again. Due to a disagreement about the race format, the Grayling Chamber of Commerce withdrew support for the race and as a result, the race started at 8:30 a.m. on August 19 near Camp Ten Bridge and finished at Lake Huron in Oscoda.

For five of the next seven years, the race was staged in a two-day format. Pro and Amateur teams would both start in Grayling on Saturday morning and race to Mio where they would stop for the evening. On Sunday morning, the pro teams would begin from Mio and the amateur teams began at Five Channels Dam, both completing the course at the finish line in Oscoda.

The LeMans-style start that we are all familiar with did not begin until August 3, 1968, when 20 pro teams lined the streets for the first time, waiting for the gun to sound the run with their boats to the riverbank for the start of the 22nd AuSable River Canoe Marathon. The thrilling LeMans run, with the teams carrying their canoes through the streets of Grayling to the river, is much anticipated by the thousands of fans crowding the streets and riverbanks in Grayling. It is one of the most iconic and electrifying moments in sports.

The year 1970 saw the return of non-stop racing for The Marathon, which was staged over the July 4th weekend. In 1971, the race was moved to the last weekend in July. In the 1980’s the start was moved from Friday to Saturday night and also from 10 p.m. to 9 p.m. The basic elements of staging the grueling non-stop overnight race have remained the same since that time.

In recent decades, the addition of other ARCM events in the days leading up to Saturday and Sunday’s thrilling race have created an activity-filled Marathon Week for competitors and fans alike. These events include the Dash For Cash - Tuesday afternoon in Oscoda - and the ARCM Time Trial Sprints - Wednesday through Friday afternoon in Grayling.

Every year, thousands of fans travel to northern Michigan’s AuSable River Valley during the last full week of July for Marathon Week, all looking forward to the 9 p.m. Saturday LeMans-style start in Grayling, followed by 120 miles of thrilling nonstop competition, with the winning team crossing the finish line in Oscoda late Sunday morning. Interested in knowing more about the history and tradition of the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon? We suggest that you check out these resources:

AuSable Marathon website: www.AuSableCanoe Marathon.org

AuSable Marathon YouTube Channel, including a “Historical” Playlist: www.youtube.com/@ ausable marathon

Thanks to the contributors to this article: Kathy Erickson, Mikayla Erickson, Camren Wilson-Money, Amy Martella, Steve Southard and Kate Reitz

Then and Now: Paddles

Then and Now: Canoes

AUSABLE RIVER CANOE MARATHON COURSE MAP

ROAD CLOSURES DURING THE AUSABLE RIVER FESTIVAL

St./ Crosswalk leave the rest open for county thru traffic, 200 & 300 Block of Michigan Ave. north side of Peninsular Ave. to Alle Way, and south side of Peninsular to Post Office Drive

*ROAD CLOSURE* 100 Block to Norway St./ crosswalk leave the rest open for county thru traffic, 200 & 300 Block of Michigan Ave. north

side of Peninsular Ave. to Alle Way, and south side of Peninsular to Post Office Drive

*ROAD CLOSURE* Begins at 3 pm Business Loop I-75 from light at Lake St. M-72 East (aka Burger King Rd) traffic is re-routed down State St./Maple St./aka Back Bridge Rd.

More information can be found online at the AuSable River Festival website at www. ausableriverfest.com

US-23 WILL BE CLOSED ON SUNDAY, JULY 28TH

The safety and well-being of our paddlers and spectators is the most important thing to the Marathon Committee. Over the past several years, there have been many near miss accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles at the Finish Line. With the help of the OscodaAuSable Chamber of Commerce, Oscoda Township and AuSable Township we have been able to make the Finish Line area safer for

everyone. This year, US-23 in Oscoda will be closed on July 28th from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Northbound traffic will be detoured on Lake Street just before the AuSable Inn Riverview Restaurant. Southbound traffic will be detoured to Lake Street just before Furtaw Field. Crossroads will still be available for parking.

River Road will remain open for traffic.

However, you will not be able to turn onto US-23. Traffic will need to continue through the stop light and make their turns onto Lake Street. While we understand that this will be a slight inconvenience, we hope that you understand that your safety is our main concern.

Volunteers will be at the north end of the closure to allow paddlers with a car pass to get through to AuSable Inn to pick up their boats.

Service Available on North Down River Road and M-72 to:

Improvements to Modernize Our Dams

Consumers Energy is always looking to update and improve our 13 hydro-electric plants along the five rivers that run through Michigan. And while we are looking at future options, we are committed to maintaining them for future generations to enjoy.

Consumers Energy’s heritage is rooted deep in these renewable energy sources. Built between 1906 and 1935, we have completed construction and improvement projects over the last decade to improve our dams.

This past year has been no different, here are a few current projects:

Alcona: This year, Consumers Energy will be upgrading the approximately 1,900 ft earthen embankment which makes Alcona Pond. When constructed, the dam was built with a concrete “core wall” which was 1-3 feet thick, and then compacted

Earth was added around the core wall on both the upstream and downstream sides, for the length of the embankment. Due to aging of the concrete over the past 100 years, the core wall will be reinforced in 2024 by installing steel sheet piling next to it for the 1,900 ft length of the core wall. This work is expected to take place between June and November.

Cooke Dam Mid-Slope Wall Replacement and Hoist Replacement: The project will start in early June and is anticipated to end in August 2024. Consumers Energy will be replacing the mid-slope wall located on the south side of the Cooke Dam powerhouse. The driveway and grass parking area on the upstream or pond side of the dam and directly near the powerhouse will be closed to the public to support the staging area of the project. None of the recreation areas associated with the dam will be impacted or closed to the public.

Parking for the Curley Race and AuSable River Canoe Marathon will be impacted and spectators will need to find an alternative parking area.

Access across the dam as part of the Curley Race and the AuSable River Canoe Marathon will still be provided as in the past. Access will be provided by a marked and secured route leading up to and across the dam. Similar parking and access restrictions will also be in place for a summer 2025 project to replace the headgates associated with the dam. This project is similar to one completed at Five Channels Dam in 2023.

Foote Dam Spillway Rehab Project and Hoist Replacement Project: This project will start in early July and end in September. Consumers Energy will be making repairs to the spillway concrete and installing new spill hoists. Work could potentially occur in the canoe portage area and we advise paddlers to use caution when portaging the dam. The canoe portage will

be free of construction during the Curley Race and the AuSable River Canoe Marathon.

Mio Electrical Updates: This project replaced legacy electrical and control equipment in the station and upgraded breakers to improve worker safety.

Furthermore, there was a new external control room installed that replaced a very small legacy control room in the plant. These upgrades increase unit reliability and decreases operator callouts.

Hodenpyl Hoists: We are replacing a legacy single hoist for manipulating head gates and opening spill tubes. The legacy hoist posed significant employee safety concerns due to the age of the hoist and outdated safety guarding. The project is slated to start in August of 2024, and the single legacy hoist will be replaced with seven hoists that will operate the various head gates and spill tubes. The hoists will open emergency spill tubes to pass water when it exceeds the capacity of the

generating units, the spill tubes are located about 60 feet below the Hodenpyl pond. The overall project cost is $10 million.

Webber Left Embankment: This project was completed in 2023 and removed and replaced the left downstream embankment retaining wall. We installed a new concrete retaining wall that replaced a legacy concrete retaining wall, this upgrade provides increased stability for the project.

Croton 1 and 2 Turbines: Completed in 2022/2023, the original scope was to replace the wicket gates, pins, and bushings. However, once the units were disassembled, it was discovered that the generator bearings needed the Babbitt material replaced, the wood bearings for the turbine shafts also needed to be replaced. There was additional work done on the overall turbine assemblies to bring them back to manufacturer specifications.

Follow the Marathon

Alcona Dam

Mio Dam

Cooke Dam

AUSABLE RIVER FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Annual Car & Truck Show Cruise Night, Starts at Northstar Auto Wash, 5:30 p.m. (food and refreshments), 7 p.m. start of cruise. Contact Dan Mygrants at (989) 745-5880 for information.

SATURDAY, JULY 20

Pancake Breakfast, Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church

2024 Classic Car & Truck Show, Michigan Avenue, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., registration 7-10 a.m., trophies 2:30 p.m.

Spike’s Challenge C-2 Race Sprints for Starting Position, Grayling City Park, 9 a.m.

Spike’s Challenge Junior, Fledgling, Mentor Races, Grayling City Park Pond, 2 p.m.

Spike’s Challenge C-1 Race, Grayling to Burton’s Landing, 6 p.m.

Blessing of the Paddlers Concert, City Park Pavilion by Grayling E Free Church, 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Spike’s Challenge C-2 Race, Old AuSable Fly Shop to McMasters Bridge, 9 a.m., lunch/awards 2 p.m. at Grayling City Park

MONDAY, JULY 22

Marathon Monday, Wear your favorite Marathon shirt, use hashtag #marathonmonday and @ausableriverfestival on social media

Well Being Evening, health focused vendors and classes, Grayling City Park, 4 to 7 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 23

Kid’s Day, “Super Hero!” theme, Grayling City Park and Nature Center, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Da$h For Ca$h, Da$h For Ca$h, Finish Line Park, Oscoda, 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Time Trials Day 1, looped course between Penrod’s Canoe Livery and the Old AuSable Fly Shop, 4-6 p.m.

H.U.P. (Hurry Up & Paddle) , Grayling City Park, 5 p.m. check-in/line-up, 6 p.m. racing

THURSDAY, JULY 25

Food Trucks/Food Vendors, 100 Block of Michigan Avenue, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Time Trials Day 2, looped course between Penrod’s Canoe Livery and the Old AuSable Fly Shop, 3-6:30 p.m.

AuSable Mainstage performances, 200 Block of Michigan Avenue, All performances free and open to the public, 3 p.m. to midnight

Brew Avenue, AuSable Main Stage Area, 3 p.m. to midnight. (Need not be 21 to enter, must be 21 with a valid ID to receive a wristband.)

Business Relays, Penrod’s Canoe Livery, 4:20 p.m.

C-1 Express, Penrod’s to Burton’s Landing, 1-5 p.m. registration at C-1 tent at Penrod’s, entry fee $15, race 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 26

ARC 120 Challenge, Borchers Canoe & Kayak, 7 a.m. start

Annual Arts & Crafts Show, Grayling City Park, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Vendors and Activity Booths, 100 Block of Michigan Avenue, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Food Trucks/Food Vendors, 100 Block of Michigan Avenue, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

AuSable Mainstage performances, 200 Block of Michigan Avenue, All performances free and open to the public, noon to midnight

Brew Avenue, AuSable Main Stage Area, Noon to midnight. (Need not be 21 to enter, must be 21 with a valid ID to receive a wristband.)

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Time Trials Day 3, looped course between Penrod’s Canoe Livery and the Old AuSable Fly Shop, 2 to 4:30 p.m.

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Special Olympics Challenge, Penrod’s Canoe Livery, 2:45 p.m.

Grayling Eagles Annual Steak Out Dinner, Grayling Eagles Club, 4 to 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Lumberjack Breakfast, hosted by Grayling Restaurant, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Grayling Recreation Authority 10K/5K, Hanson Hills, 9 a.m. (Register at hansonhills.org)

Annual Arts & Crafts Show, Grayling City Park, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

4th Annual Corn Hole Tournament, AuSable Mainstage Area, 10 a.m. (9 a.m. registration)

Grayling Eagles Tom Trenary Horseshoe Tournament, Grayling Eagles Club, 10 a.m.

Miss AuSable River Festival Pageant, AuSable River Festival Mainstage, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Vendors and Activity Booths, 100 Block of Michigan Avenue, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Food Trucks/Food Vendors, 100 Block of Michigan Avenue, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Brew Avenue, AuSable Main Stage Area, Noon to midnight. (Need not be 21 to enter, must be 21 with a valid ID to receive a wristband.)

American Legion Beer Tent , Noon to 6 p.m.

AuSable Mainstage performances, 200 Block of Michigan Avenue, 1 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Duck Derby, City Park Bridge, 3 p.m.

AuSable River Festival Parade, Downtown Grayling, 4 p.m.

AuSable River Canoe Marathon Pre-Race Program, Old AuSable Fly Shop, 6 p.m.

Introduction of Paddlers, Old AuSable Fly Shop, 6:45 p.m.

76th Annual Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon Start, Old AuSable Fly Shop, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 28

76th Annual Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon Finish, Finish Line Park, Oscoda, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information and updates on the AuSable River Festival, visit the event’s official website at www. ausableriverfest.com/

76TH MARATHON OSCODA EVENT LINEUP

MONDAY, JULY 22

Blind Canoe Race, Oscoda Canoe Rental, Oscoda, 6 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 23

Dash For Cash, Finish Line Park, Oscoda, 5:30 p.m., also includes “The Rivalry on the River”

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

Cardboard Canoe Race, and Greased Watermelon Race, Oscoda Canoe Rental, Oscoda, 6 p.m.

Ken Kolonich, Brett Stockton to be inducted into Marathon Hall of Fame

Every year since 2006, at least two people have been inducted into the Canoe Marathon Hall of Fame. These are people the committee, as well as the community, believe deserve the recognition; whether it be their accomplishments in the sport or their dedication to improving it. This year the individuals who will join the ranks are Ken Kolonich and Brett Stockton

This year, Ken Kolonich joins the Marathon Hall of Fame. Ken is a part of the Kolonich racing family. His first three races were competed with his father, and fellow Hall of Famer, Steven Kolonich. Ken also raced in 1982 and 1984 with his brother Burrell, and 15 of his races were finished with his son, Steve Kolonich.

Ken has the third-longest career in Marathon history spanning from 19622015, earning 23 Marathon finishes in that time. Kolonich earned his Iron Paddler Award, given to recognize 10 Marathon finishes, in 1992. Followed was his Steel Paddler Award in 2009, given to recognize 20 Marathon finishes. He has also earned his spot in the Hall of Fame with his seven age records and seven sub 15-hour Marathon finishes. Kolonich became the oldest top 10 Marathon finisher in 2015 at the age of 69.

Next up is Brett Stockton, of the Stockton racing family. Brett’s paddling career spans from 1978-2023. In that time, Brett earned 17 Marathon finishes, including nine championships and five top-10 finishes. Brett competed in the Marathon 14 times between 1978 and 1992, and then stepped back until 2021, when he raced with 2016 Cham-

pion, Ryan Halstead.

Some of Brett’s other accomplishments within the Marathon include his 1988 record time of 14:20:00 and his five age records, with two of them earned as a teenager. Stockton is tied for the youngest Marathon Champion at 19 years old with his 1982 victory, raced with his uncle, Butch Stockton. Twelve of Brett’s fifteen races have been finished in under 15-hours. He also earned his Iron Paddler Award in 1987. Hall of Fame recipients are selected by a joint Marathon Committee vote. To qualify for the honor, an individual must have either contributed time, resources or assisted in the development of procedures that have either improved or continued the success of the Marathon. An individual may also be chosen for exemplifying the stamina, drive, competitive nature, character and the ability to overcome obstacles while competing in the Marathon. Individuals recognized to the ARCM Hall of Fame since its inception are: Marilyn Wagner, Jay Stephan Sr., Hugh Bissonette, Bernie Fowler, Butch Stockton, Harry Curley, Ralph Sawyer, Al Widing Sr., Oscoda-AuSable Township Fire Department Water Rescue, Frank and Peggy Smutek, Stan Hall, John Cook, John Baker, Ed Wojahn, Serge Corbin, Bruce Myles, Lynne Witte, Jack Kolka, Larry Kindell, Howard Brubaker, Réjean Huard, the Gary Family, the Kellogg Brothers (Jeff and Jerry), Bruce Barton, Solomon Carrière, Jeff Kolka, Joe Wakeley, Steven Kolonich, Irvin and Buzz Peterson, Don Feldhauser, Rick Joy, Connie Cannon, Ed & Marge Martella.

Brett and Butch Stockton at Foote Dam, 1982

Ken Kolonich, with his son Steve in the stern, during the 2009 ARCM

AuSAble RiveR CAnoe MARAthon 2024

ARC 120

A third running of the Consumers Energy AuSable River Challenge (ARC) 120 will again be complementing Marathon Week in 2024. It is geared toward all types of recreational, touring and racing watercraft. It must be powered by a single- or double-bladed paddle. The ARC 120 is a full length of the AuSable River challenge from Grayling to Oscoda. It is a good opportunity for paddlers of all skill levels to try the mighty AuSable in an organized event to test your abilities and see how you fare against the course.

The ARC 120 is a fundraiser for the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon Pro C2 main event, and helps support emergency responders.

The ARC 120 will start at 7 a.m. Friday, July 26th, at Borchers Canoe Rental in Grayling and finish at the AuSable Inn in Oscoda. Teams will have until noon Saturday, July 27th, to complete the course. For applications, rules, or any questions about the event, please email ARC120@ausablerivercanoemarathon.org.

2024 ARC ENTRIES

#C01 Christopher DeVries of Ann Arbor will be paddling an outrigger canoe (OC1)

#C02 Brady Lotz of Rockwall, TX will be paddling a solo V10 surfski

#C03 Judy Stepanek of Kewadin will be paddling a solo V8 surfski

#C04 Daniel Novak of Traverse City will be on a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)

#C05 Neal Johnson and Enid Hagerty both from Traverse City will be paddling a tandem touring canoe (C2)

#C06 Jeremy Vore of Skandia will be paddling a solo cruiser canoe (C1)

#C07 Tanya Rice and Daniel Rice, both of Grayling, will be paddling a tandem pro canoe (C2)

#C08 Aaron Mead of Grayling will be paddling a solo canoe (C1)

#C09 Yvon Dufour of Fowler will be paddling a solo kayak (K1)

#C10 Cody Sapp of Muskegon will be paddling a solo canoe (C1)

#C11 Russell Anderson of Ludington will be paddling a solo touring canoe (C1)

#C12 Justin Roelofs and Adam Heinlein, both of Ypsilanti, will be paddling a tandem racing canoe (C2)

#C13 Ryan Gregory and Larry Daughtry, both of Saginaw, will be paddling a recreational tandem canoe (C2)

#C14 is a relay team of eight people with Frank Taber, Gene Taber, Judy Taber, Todd Carr, Hunter Scott, Aaron Taber, Jill Taber, Luke Decker. They will be paddling a tandem pro canoe (C2)

Thank You 2024 Marathon Sponsors Title

Sponsor

Thank You 2024 Marathon Sponsors

DASH FOR CASH

Sprint race to be held in Oscoda on Tuesday night of Marathon week

Oscoda’s 2024 Da$h For Ca$h (Presented by Gilbert’s Drug of Oscoda & Kalitta Air) – will be held on Tuesday, July 23. The Da$h For Ca$h is a bracket-style, single elimination event. Teams will be competing for a part of a $5,000+ prize pool. Sprints are scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. and will be held in approximately 2-3 minute intervals until a champion is crowned. Prize money will be handed out following the final sprint, and paddlers must be present to collect their prize. Check-in and registration for the Da$h for Ca$h will be held at Finish Line Park from 3 p.m. until 5:15 p.m. Teams are positioned on the bracket via random draw at 5:15 p.m. The event is free to enter for paddlers registered for the Marathon, and the cost is $20/person for non-Marathon-entrants. For more information, please visit the Marathon website.

2024 DASH FOR CASH PRIZE MONEY PAYOUT

1st: $500

2nd: $300

3rd-4th: $200

5th-8th: $150

9th-16th: $100

17th-32nd: $50

33rd-64th: $0

Bonus money is awarded to the top two (2) teams with the fastest overall times, from each of the following divisions: (1st-$150, 2nd-$50)

Women’s – Both female paddlers

Mixed – One male, one female paddler

Masters – Both racers aged 40+ years

Seniors – Both racers aged 50+ years (Senior teams do not qualify for the Masters bonus)

Veterans – Both racers aged 60+ years (Veteran teams do not qualify for the Masters or Seniors bonus)

Out of State – Both racers reside outside of Michigan International – Both paddlers reside outside the USA (International teams do not qualify for Out of State Bonus)

Continental – One Michigan, one non-Michigan paddler All-Michigan – Both racers reside in Michigan

Special Olympics Canoe Challenge

Since 1989, the Grayling Knights of Columbus has teamed up with the Marathon Committee to conduct the Special Olympics Canoe Challenge. This heartwarming event pairs professional Marathon paddlers with area Special Olympians to paddle a short looped course upstream and back down in an aluminum canoe. It is not a long endurance race like the one held the next day, but to these very special participants, it is far more important. To them, it is more than just a minute or two of fun; it is something they look forward to for a whole year. It is their time to be part of the action! The Special Olympic Canoe Challenge is held each year during Friday Time Trials. If you have not had the opportunity to see the event, you should stop by and cheer on the teams. The huge smiles when the Olympians cross the finish line or receive their participation medals make this a must-see event. Each year the Marathon Committee donates a portion of the Marathon entry fees to the Michigan Special Olympics. To date, such donations have totaled close to $20,000.

C-1 Express

The 2024 C-1 Express Race sponsored by Dead Bear Brewing Co. will be held on Thursday, July 25, at Penrod’s during a portion of the AuSable River Canoe Marathon Time Trials. The C-1 Express Race is a C-1 event open to the general public. Racers line up in the river at Penrod’s and race to the river-end of Burton’s Landing Road, approximately six miles downstream. Event registration is held from 1 to 5 p.m. on the day of the race. The entry fee is $15. The drawing for starting position will take place approximately 5:45 p.m. at Penrod’s. Cash prizes are awarded at the finish line. The total prize pool is $660 with both men’s and women’s divisions.