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Mariana: High turnout expected for state’s largest float race

By Olivia Goudy For The 3 min read
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Holly Tonini

The first of the contestants in the Marianna Canoe Race row down the Ten Mile Creek during the 2016 event.

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Submitted photo

Kayaks and canoes are shown in April 2016 as they float down Ten Mile Creek in Marianna during Marianna Outdoorsmen Association’s canoe and anything-that-floats race.

For more than a decade, rafters of all ages have been bringing their kayaks, canoes and other floatable vessels to Ten Mile Creek in Mariana.

On a 3.2-mile stretch, rafters will be featured in a flotilla as part of the Marianna Outdoorsmen Association’s (MOA) 12th annual race and outdoors weekend.

“I’d say that it’s probably the best kept secret around here,” said Jason White, MOA president.

Each year, they invite boaters to Mariana to participate in the event that White says grows increasingly each year.

Last year, more than 250 boaters participated, while the previously year there were only around 200. They often travel from other states and parts of the commonwealth to participate in the events, White said, adding that it’s the largest float race in Pennsylvania.

Boaters can enter their raft of choice in the appropriate bracket, which is broken down into canoes, kayaks and anything that floats. Awards will also be handed out after the race for race placements and appearances.

The race begins at 9 a.m., followed by a day of related events including an inaugural car, truck and tractor show and live music.

On Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., White said there will be vendors, crafters, a petting zoo, more live music, trout stocking a kids fishing derby and a Stihl chainsaw demonstration.

“We’re expecting about 4,000 to 5,000 people over the two days,” White said.

Overall, he hopes that those who come will get the most out of two full days of outdoor activities.

“It gives people a chance to enjoy the natural and recreational assets that are underutilized and underused,” he said.

“It’s an absolute blessing to have good weather, and another year in the books,” he added.

Mariana, a small borough in Washington County that runs along Ten Mile Creek, could be comparable to Ohiopyle, White said.

“We just haven’t tapped its potential,” White added, noting that there’s a demand for outdoor recreation in the area, and that donations and proceeds will go towards building upon that with attractions like campgrounds and trail improvements.

“We try to promote this area regionally and develop a recreation infrastructure,” White said.

He also commended Mariana’s recent growth, noting that there are a number of former coal, patch towns that are looking for an identity now.

“Find your niche and stick to it. It’s what’s needed,” White said. “With the Outdoorfest, we’re trying to highlight what we have, while giving people the chance to get people engaged in the outdoors.”

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