The H.U.P. Race is a spoof on the AuSable River International Canoe Marathon. H.U.P. is an abbreviation for “Hurry Up and Paddle…or SINK” Race. Each team is responsible to build their own “canoe” – out of plywood, boards, nails and duct tape. Canoes will be judged and given various awards, including “most creative design”, “Haven’t got a Clue”, and “Sinker”. The one paddler allowed in each canoe may be in costume.
2010 H.U.P. Race Qualifying Rules
Wednesday, July 21st @ 5:30pm @ Grayling City Park
Goal: To build a canoe which will stay afloat for the entire race course in the AuSable River at the Grayling City Park.
Teams: Teams may consist of any number of builders; however, each team may have only one official paddler and one additional individual to help carry the canoe to the water. Teams may be businesses, organization, family or any group of people. Group challenges are encouraged. Paddler must be 15 years of age or older.
This year teams are allowed to use last years boat or you can get the following kit.
Your Canoe Building Kit consists of the following:
- One sheet of 4’ x 8’ x ¼” plywood
- Two 2’ x 4” x 8” boards
- One pound of nails
- One roll of 2” x 60 yard duct tape
NO CAULKING, ADHESIVES OR EPOXY PAINT IS ALLOWED. PAINTING YOUR CANOE AND/OR PAINTING TEAM NAME ON THE CANOE WITH LATEX PAINT IS PERMITTED AND IS OPTIONAL. CANOES BUILT USING MATERIALS OTHER THAN THAT PROVIDED (WITH EXCEPTION OF LATEX PAINT) MAY BE PENALIZED OR MAY BE DISQUALIFIED.
Flags and/or banners may be attached to the canoe with ducktape. Team paddler may be dressed in costume. Costume is not mandatory, however it is encouraged as it will add to the festivities. Costumes will be judged. Paddler must be 15 years of age or older and must wear a life jacket. Paddles and life jackets will be provided.
All canoes are to be at the Grayling City Park for inspection and judging at 5:30 PM on Wednesday, July 22nd. A course demonstration will follow judging and the Opening Ceremony will begin at 7:00 PM. Race will begin immediately thereafter.
Competition Categories
- Most Creative Design
- Best Costumed Paddler
- 1st Place “Fastest HUP’er”
- Almost-But Not Quite 1st Place
- Sinker Award
- “Haven’t Got a Clue” Award
River Rat Drinks along with H.U.P munchies and other interesting AuSable River treats will be available for a nominal fee.
Entry fee will benefit the Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Stop by or contact the Grayling Chamber @ 989-348-2921 for an application.
Thank you for your participation. Have fun and Good Luck!
