MYSTIC RIVER HERRING RUN & PADDLE 2010
Run, Walk, or Paddle for the Fish!
Thanks to those who participated in the event, and to those who volunteered and donated to make the day a success.
On Sunday, May 16th, MyRWA hosted a very successful 14th annual Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle at the Blessing of the Bay Boathouse in Somerville. The sun was shining and the weather was perfect for running and paddling. Click the link here for the RUNNING RESULTS. Music, children’s activities, a free boat demonstration and educational exhibits by local advocacy groups added to the festivities. Food was generously provided by Whole Foods Market of Medford. Click the link here for the PADDLING RESULTS.
Congratulations Iron Herring winners (fastest overall in 5K road race and 12 mile paddle): Michael Melnikov & Holly Todd.
News coverage includes: Marvelous day on the Mystic in Somerville marred by mediocre marks, The Somerville News
MyRWA thanks our sponsors for their generous support!
View paddling VIDEO footage here.
CELEBRATE THE HERRING
The Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle celebrates the return of the blueback herring and alewives that make their way up the Mystic River in order to reach their native spawning grounds. In the past, millions of herring swam through the Mystic, but their numbers have dropped considerably due to offshore fishing, pollution and the building of dams on the river. But no matter what hurdles they face, the fish keep returning year after year. For the past 14 years, local residents have been running along the banks and paddling up the river to show their support of the river and the tenacious herring and alewives that call it home. In addition to running, paddling, volunteering or sponsoring the event, we also invite you to become a MyRWA member as a way to advocate for clean water for herring and recreation alike. Join by clicking on Network for Good!
Learn more about the Mystic River by watching the video "Meet The Mystic".
Did you know that a herring is a type of fish?
There are two types of herring in the Mystic River Watershed: Alewife Herring (Alosa pseudoharengus) and Blueback Herring (Alosa aestivalis). Herring spend their lives in the ocean except when they swim upstream to lay their eggs, or spawn, in rivers such as the Mystic River. The Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle Festival celebrates the return of this anadromous species to the Mystic River each spring.
· Fabulous prizes donated by local businesses for top three overall female and male athletes; first place age groups and team finishes.