The record attempt was conceived by Venture Outdoors as a way to raise awareness of World Environment Day and give the region’s residents, regardless of age or ability, a chance to celebrate the outdoors together. Sally Newman is one good example of the range those ages may reach.

Newman, a retired Intergenerational Studies professor at Pitt, will turn 81 on June 4, the day before Paddle at the Point. That evening, she and her husband plan to attend the symphony to hear Beethoven’s 9^th. The evening of June 5, post-record attempt, they intend to paddle downtown and see the Zambelli Brothers light up the sky above PNC Park during a Fireworks Paddle with Venture Outdoors.

Newman insists that there’s nothing exceptional about her active lifestyle. She has a “lousy back,” but loves to be outdoors. A week-long family vacation of backpacking and kayaking in Alaska stands out as one of her most memorable experiences. Could breaking a world record cause a similar thrill?

“More people my age should go!” said Newman. “We’re outdoors folks … but it’s not that we’re great.”

Of course, she’s has a point. No experience is necessary to take part in the event and it won’t be particularly strenuous, so it’s welcoming to beginners of all ages. To participate in a kayak or canoe, individuals need only be at least 3 years old and 35 pounds, And although paddlers won’t travel far or fast, two-seater tandem kayaks offer families or couples, like the Newmans, a way to keep an eye on each other.

We’re looking for local clubs, groups or organizations that want to become a part of history! There’s no experience necessary so bring your book club, youth group or scout troop. Join the ranks and we’ll announce any club or organization  on this website to help spread the word  and rally more paddlers.  And we’ll keep running list of all the groups attending so you can see who’ll be there.