The iconic Don River will be taken over by hundreds of paddlers this Sunday, May 1 as part of the 23rd Annual Manulife Paddle the Don. The event, which raises both awareness and funds to support environmental stewardship across the GTA, is a favourite for paddling enthusiasts of all ages. It’s also one of the best ways to show the beauty of nature found here in the city.
Sponsored by Manulife, the event draws eager paddlers who travel down the river in canoes and kayaks. This once-a-year adventure is expected to attract more than 300 boats and nearly 700 participants, whose generosity helps support a number of initiatives in the Don watershed.
To date, more than $600,000 has been raised in support of environmental education programming, conservation efforts and public awareness, ultimately benefiting the people who live, work and visit the Don watershed.
Manulife Paddle the Don is organized through Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), The Living City Foundation and the Wilderness Canoe Association, along with the support of more than 200 volunteers. Organizers are grateful as well to The Complete Paddler, Mill Street Brewery and Starbucks.
What:
Manulife Paddle the Don
When:
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Launch Site:
The 10.5 km paddle starts at Ernest Thompson Seaton Park, across the park via the entrance to Wilket Creek and Sunnybrook Park on the west side of Leslie Street, just north of Eglinton Avenue and follow the signs.
Take-out Site:
Parkette northwest corner of Villiers Street and Don Roadway (170 Villiers St.)
8:15 a.m. Welcome from the Metis Nation of Ontario; greetings from Ontario Premier, The Honourable Kathleen Wynne; Edwina Stoate, VP Strategic Sourcing, Manulife; Councilor Paul Ainslie, Member Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
8:30 to 12:30 Participants paddle the Don River
10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Manulife Landing Party Event at Villiers Parkette (170 Villiers St.) to celebrate participants’ successful paddle down the Don River