Now is the time to start practicing your best rowing and paddling skills for the 22nd annual Southport Rowgatta on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 8:30 a.m.

Propelling any person-powered craft that is both seaworthy and safe (rowboat, kayak, shell, SUP, canoe, etc.), participants start the 12 nautical-mile course at the Newagen Town Landing — traveling to checkpoints at Cozy Harbor and Robinson’s Wharf before heading back to Newagen.

Sponsored by the Boothbay Region YMCA and co-chaired by Abby Jones and Andy Hamblett, the event is a Southport tradition launched by third-generation Southporter Susan Quinby in 1994. Bringing paddlers young and old together from near and far — and with an exciting and fun array of prizes awarded — the Rowgatta guarantees a good time for spectators and participants alike.

Paddlers may enter as either individuals or in teams of up to six members — with registration forms available at the YMCA front desk ($40/person prior to Aug. 15; $45/person on event day).

For further information or to serve as an event volunteer, please call Abby Jones at 207-633-2855 — and we look forward to seeing you on Southport on Aug. 15.