In partnership, the Municipality of Port Hope and the Float your Fanny Down the Ganny Committee announce that initial planning of the traditional river race on the Ganaraska River has begun and a call for local race participants is underway in preparation for the event scheduled for Saturday, April 9, 2022.
“After a two-year hiatus due to restrictions from the pandemic, we are cautiously optimistic about the return of Float Your Fanny and a community celebration to mark the 40th race in our history,” says Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “We are keeping a watchful eye on the COVID-19 situation and after careful consideration and in collaboration with community and emergency service partners, we are able to take the first step in the planning process. As we have seen over the last couple of years, plans may change in the coming weeks and months and the Committee is ready to pivot operations at any time, but for now, we are working towards hosting the race and taking a more local approach to our promotion of the festivities.”
Float Your Fanny Down the Ganny is a signature celebration in the Municipality of Port Hope – one that honours the community coming together after the devastating flood of 1980. Participants are challenged in a rigorous 10-kilometre race down the mighty Ganaraska River. At the finish line, “Fannyville”, the outdoor event village, is set up to host various food, drink and merchant vendors, on-stage entertainment, children’s activities, and a live commentary of the race results, culminating in an award presentation for the race finalists.
“We’ve been hibernating for two years and are ready to celebrate the unofficial start of spring with the return of this much-loved Port Hope tradition,” says Barry Adamson, Float Your Fanny Co-Chair. “Our small non-profit organization appreciates the support of the Municipality to help us bring this event back to our community calendar. We are excited, cautious, but ready to get back out there and have some good old-fashioned fun!”
As usual, Municipality of Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services, in collaboration with multiple community emergency service partners are heavily involved in the safety planning and will be on-site during the event. Participants and spectators must follow protocols and remain mindful and respectful of each other along the riverbank. The health and safety of the community remains top priority for event organizers and the Municipality.
Participant registration is now open on the Race website: www.floatyourfanny.ca. All participants are reminded to carefully review registration information to prepare accordingly for the smooth launch of your vessel and safe travels on the fast and chilly waters of the Ganaraska.
The event plan was previously reviewed by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, to ensure the Municipality remains in compliance with all policies and procedures to support the safety and sustainability of the fish and wildlife habitats in the river.
While the event is scheduled for April 9, weather conditions and COVID-19 protocols and/or restrictions will be considered leading up to the Race. The inclement weather date is scheduled for April 16, 2022.
SubscribeContact Us