Pittsburgh boaters float to a world record
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People in canoes and kayaks paddle in to join together during an attempt to break the world record for a joined flotilla off the Point at Pittsburgh on June 5, 2010.
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If setting world records really floats your boat, Pittsburgh is No. 1.
Officials from Guinness World Records confirmed last week that on June 5, 2010, a flotilla of 1,619 small-craft boaters floating at the Point broke the record for the largest raft of canoes and kayaks.
Organized by Venture Outdoors, a nonprofit that encourages outdoor recreation, the "Paddle to the Point" event was scheduled to coincide with World Environment Day to raise awareness about the value of Pittsburgh's rivers.
Pittsburgh boaters blew the previous record-holders out of the water. Inlet Area Business of New York amassed 1,104 boats, having surpassed Cleveland's old record of 776 boats.
Mayor Luke Ravenstahl was part of Pittsburgh's record-setting flotilla.
"I hope that this accomplishment will help to raise public appreciation for the water resources we have right here in Pittsburgh, and to encourage residents and visitors to take advantage of our remarkable rivers," Mr. Ravenstahl said.
Confirming the record was no day at the beach for Guinness officials, who counted every craft on a high-resolution digital photograph of the event.
World Environment Day is held every year on June 5, and is coordinated worldwide by the United Nations Environment Programme.
This year's emphasis is to encourage nonprofit organizations, private businesses and others to fill the days between Earth Day (April 22) and World Environment Day with outdoors-related programming and activities. With support from the Bayer USA Foundation, a website has been set up at www.PittsburghWED.com, where regional groups can post related events.
First Published April 4, 2011 12:00 am
