Welcome to the Thirteenth Annual Two Harbors Kayak Festival.August 6-8, 2010
The racing portion of the THKF has grown rapidly and is the oldest and largest open water race on the Great Lakes and is also well known for its quality. Some great stories have evolved over the years. We offer three separate kayak races, with various age groups and boat categories, local exhibitors, kayak equipment demos, beginning level instructional tours, advanced clinics, kids kayaking, gear swap, food and fun, and more! The racing portion of the THKF has grown rapidly and is the oldest and largest open water race on the Great Lakes, aside from the stunning beauty of the course and its quality organization, this event draws paddlers from all over the Midwest and beyond. Some great relationships and stories have evolved over the years. In 2007 a new 18 Mile Great River Energy (GRE) Kayak Marathon - Men’s Unlimited Racing Kayak Class record was set by Eric Borgness, 2:18:55, besting his prior record setting effort in 2004 of 2:19:26. The women joined the 18 Mile Marathon Unlimited Racing Kayak scene in 2004 with Megan Kleinschmidt’s 2:55:10 pace setting effort. 2008 was the first year an “unlimited tandem” showed up on the course, Daniel Sikora and Chris VanMeter paddled their double surf ski to a 2:32:12, easily eclipsing the old tandem mark. 2004 saw a new 18 Mile GRE Marathon Men’s Production Sea Kayak record set by Robert Kinderman, 2:43:18, followed by Mike Brumbaugh, 2:47:26, both improving on a great 2001 effort from Ron Deters, 2:47:27. That same year (’04) the 18 Mile Marathon Women’s Production Sea Kayak class featured Gail Green, who established a new course record of 2:58:12, topping her previous personal best of 3:05:19. Everyone is looking to improve their personal best time. It’s a great feeling when it happens and it’s a significant accomplishment to finish the marathon! The best times for the 5 Mile Betty’s Pies 1/4 marathon were established on the course that turns around at the mouth of the Stewart River. In the Composite Sea Kayak class it was John Radle, 55:34 in 2004, and Cindy Little, 1:01:24 in 2008, setting course records. Please browse our website. You may find something of interest. We feel that this year's festival has opportunities for everyone, from those who have never stepped into a kayak to seasoned paddlers. Hope to see you at the Festival! | 
