(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
The Municipality of Port Hope and the Float Your Fanny Down the Ganny Committee proudly announce the annual call for participants for this year’s event, set for Saturday, April 12, 2025. Racers of all interest levels can take part in one of three exciting categories.
“This cherished annual event is a defining tradition of Port Hope, drawing participants and spectators from near and far,” says Olena Hankivsky, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “Safety remains a top priority, and I extend my gratitude to our emergency services, staff, and dedicated volunteers who make it all possible. I look forward to another fantastic day of community spirit, excitement on the river, and time spent with friends and neighbours.”
This year, the Inflatable category offers a shorter river run option (Optimist Park launch) that provides an opportunity to join the race without constructing a complex craft – great for first-time or young participants. The Crazy Crafts return this year after a one-year hiatus (due to the Sylvan Glen reconstruction), along with the Canoes and Kayaks, with their usual excitement, creativity and community spirit.
The Float Your Fanny Down the Ganny Race 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 live commentary of the race results, culminating in an award presentation for the race finalists.
“It’s been quite a winter, hopefully all this snow means good river flow in April. We’re very excited for spring so we can welcome everyone back into Fannyville and to see the brave participants on the water,” notes Barry Adamson and Barrileigh Price event CoChairs. “We were delighted to offer all categories, canoes, kayaks and crazy craft, as well as the Floatie, and are calling on the public to get their vessels and costumes ready. This is going to be a special year, and we appreciate everyone who comes out
with Ganny spirit.”
Participant registration is now open on the Race website: 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. For information on more Ganny Weekend fun for the whole family, visit porthope.ca/ganny-weekend.
The event plan was 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.
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.
While the event is scheduled for April 12, river conditions will be monitored and considered leading up to the Race. If deemed necessary, the race date may be rescheduled for April 19, 2025.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
