eMacomb - Progress Through Partnerships, Winter 2012

Sprint and Splash

New event planned for Lake St. Clair

Instead of just dreaming of the warmer weather to come, we’ll soon be feeling the soft summer breezes off Lake St. Clair (really, we will!) That’s reason enough to start thinking about one of the many exciting lakefront events of the season. Macomb County and the Lake St. Clair Tourism Initiative will host the first annual Sprint and Splash at Lake St. Clair on Saturday, June 9, 2012 at the Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township. The event begins at 8 a.m. and features three events:

A Duathlon, a race that will combine running five kilometers and kayaking five kilometers
5K Fun Run and Walk
World Paddle Association sanctioned stand-up paddle boarding competition offering an option for serious competitors as well as a shorter course for beginners

The purpose of this unique event is to promote and celebrate Lake St. Clair. It’s part of an entire weekend of events that will “celebrate the lake,” including DNR Free Fishing Weekend, National Marina Day and River Day.

Lake St. Clair is truly the heart of the Great Lakes—it is one of the largest freshwater fisheries in North America and also one of the busiest recreational waterways in the Midwest. Everyone who participates in this event will be supporting organizations that are working to improve the regional economy by increasing tourism to Lake St. Clair and its coastal communities. These organizations also strive to protect and restore Lake St. Clair, the Clinton River and the surrounding natural areas.

The primary benefactor of Sprint and Splash will be the Lake St. Clair Tourism Initiative, a public/private, non-profit association created to increase awareness, protect and develop the rich and diverse assets on and around this freshwater community. One goal of this initiative is to educate and connect visitors with the many experiences offered by Lake St. Clair and the surrounding businesses and communities. This promotes economic development around the entire lake and helps to advance a long term vision and plan for continued sustainable development.

Two other non-profit organizations will also benefit from this event: The Clinton River Watershed Council and Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy. Both organizations focus on conserving, sustaining, and protecting the region’s natural resources.

People of all ages and athletic abilities are encouraged to participate in this event. For more information on participation fees or to register online, please visit: www.sprintandsplash.com.

Discounts are being offered for all active and reserve military personnel and there are reduced prices for anyone who registers before April 1st! If you are interested in volunteer or sponsorship opportunities please call 586-469-5285 or e-mail sprintandsplash@yahoo.com.