The Bridge Burners Challenge

Run & Paddle Course: Race to burn the bridge before the Confederates cross! Run from Columbia River Park at the bridge entrance up the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail to the Iron Furnaces (1.75 Miles). Collect all your dynamite’ (race baton) you’ll need and race back to the River Park (1.75 Miles). Board your kayak and paddle across the Susquehanna north of the Covered Bridge Piers (1.25 Miles). Once across drop off the ‘dynamite’ (race baton) and paddle back on the south side of the Veteran’s Memorial Bride to Columbia River Park (1.25 miles). NO real fires/dynamite during race. This is a wheeled course. Run portion of the race is mixed sidewalk and paved trail. There is also a railroad crossing on the course.

Location & Race Timeline: Columbia Crossing 41 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512. Center is located off the Columbia Exit for Route 30; at the intersection of Walnut Street and Front Street (Route 441). Bib pick up is between 10 AM and 5 PM on Friday, June 2310 or beginning at 8:00 AM, Saturday, June 24. Meet at Columbia River Park pavilion for a safety meeting by 8:30 AM. Race begins at 9 AM.

Kayak/Canoe Information: Registrants can provide their own kayak or rent one from a local outfitter like Chiques Rock Outfitters (chiquesrockoutfitters.net). Columbia River Park is a PA Fish & Boat Commission-regulated launch so kayaks must have an unpowered boat launch permit. Visit www.fishandboat.com to purchase the necessary permit. All participants are required to wear a life vest during the kayaking leg and must be equipped with a whistle. Participants must be 16 years and older.

Timing and Awards: Split timing for the running and kayaking legs will be provided by Pretzel City Sports. Results will be posted within 48 hours at www.PretzelCitySports.com. Custom medals and cash prizes from Discover Columbia!