Local Entities Welcome Great Alabama 650
RELEASED: October 2, 2020
The Great Alabama 650 is the world’s longest annual paddle race. This race begins at Weiss Lake in northeast Alabama and stretches all the way to Fort Morgan for the finish totaling 650 miles following the Alabama Scenic River Trail. The Elmore County Economic Development Authority, Wetumpka High School, Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Wetumpka, and the City of Wetumpka helped welcome the paddlers to checkpoint one at Coosa River Adventures.
13 boats completed the trek to Wetumpka. Upon arrival at Coosa River Adventures, participants were awarded a trophy paddle for making it the first 232 miles of the race. The first boat made it on Monday, September 28th and the last boater made it on Tuesday, September 29th. All the paddlers were eager to receive their paddles. Ansley Emfinger with ECEDA said, “It was an honor getting to reward the paddlers with this trophy because they had worked so hard to reach this point.”
These paddles were painted by the art student at Wetumpka High School. “It was great working with the art students and their teacher on this project. We cannot thank them enough for their hard work,” said Emfinger.
The race with conclude in Fort Morgan on October 6th. If you would like to follow the race, go to www.AL650.com for a live tracking map.