A child paddles during the Willard Hanmer race on July 2, 2023. (Enterprise photo — Parker O’Brien)

SARANAC LAKE — It’s Hanmer time. Mark the date.

The annual running of the Willard Hanmer Guideboat and Canoe race is set for July 7. The race began in 1963 to honor Willard Hanmer, a local Adirondack Guideboat builder who had passed away the year before. Area businessmen, and the newly formed Saranac Lake Sports Council, organized the race to honor Hanmer and his guideboats, the classic symbol of boating in the Adirondacks.

Folboats and Alden rowing shells (Dr. and Mrs. Edward Livingston Trudeau’s passion) were once part of the races; however, each faded out of favor. The race now includes all classes of guideboats, canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards.

On July 1, the Hotel Saranac and Green Side of the Big Apple will kick off a week of events with the third annual Guideboat Show, now held in the ballroom of the hotel. Guideboats from the surrounding areas, many from the 1800s and Great Camps, are still water worthy and raced today. Area guideboat builders and racers man the show and share their knowledge with attendees. Audio visual presentations, building materials and accessories compliment the show, which runs through July 8. The week is centered around the village of Saranac Lake’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show over Lake Flower at dusk.

The day before the Hanmer, on July 6, a “million dollar half mile” of wooden boats will appear on the shores of Lake Flower. The Runabout Rendevoux hosted by Spencer Boatworks (Jay Annis) and the Woodward Boatshop (Chris Woodward), will provide the community with an opportunity to view some of the finest antique and custom wooden boats in the Adirondacks.

The Hanmer begins the next morning of July 7. Race organizers are already busy preparing race day activities, which now includes expanded junior and mixed classes. This year, John Duprey may be the first guideboater in over three decades to win the one man guideboat race for the third year in a row. The race will honor the fastest traditional guideboat with a special award.

Those interested in volunteering or being a vendor can call Kathy at 505-235-1268. Entry and registration forms are now available at the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Woods and Waters, Adirondack Lakes and Trails, St. Regis Outfitters, upon request at greensideofthebigapple@gmail.com or online at saranaclake.com/events/hanmer. Visit greensideofthebigapple.com for more information.