LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the General
Clinton Canoe Regatta in 2012

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality of
life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by its
exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions and
events; and
WHEREAS, It is also the sense of this Legislative Body that insti-
tutions and events that give positive definition to the profile and
disposition of the communities of the State of New York profoundly
strengthen our society with their commitment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 50th Anniversary of the General Clinton Canoe Regatta in 2012;
and
WHEREAS, Conceived by Charles Hinkley and a group of local businessmen
in Bainbridge, New York, the General Clinton Canoe Regatta was founded
in 1962; it is named in honor of General James Clinton of the 1779
Revolutionary War "Sullivan-Clinton Expedition" down the Susquehanna
River; and
WHEREAS, Celebrating 50 years of endurance canoe racing in 2012, the
General Clinton Canoe Regatta is the longest single day flat water canoe
race in the world; the race features canoes of all kinds, from 90-pound
recreational canoes to 20-pound lightweight graphite canoes; and
WHEREAS, A grueling 70 mile test of endurance, stamina, and canoeing
skills, the General Clinton Canoe Regatta begins at the source of the
Susquehanna River on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, New York, and finishes
at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, New York; and
WHEREAS, An estimated 3,000 amateur, professional and Olympic hopeful
canoeists participate in the General Clinton Canoe Regatta over the
course of the weekend; including canoeing's top marathon paddlers from
North America and Europe, featuring world class athletes such as 28-time
General Clinton Canoe Regatta winner, Canadian Serge Corbin, and Olympic
Gold Medalist, Greg Barton; and
WHEREAS, The General Clinton Canoe Regatta weekend features over 50
races in one- or two-person classes for all ages; and
WHEREAS, Thousands of spectators at every accessible point on the
river contribute encouragement, cheer, and assist the canoeists over the
General Clinton Canoe Regatta's big 4-day Memorial Day weekend; and
WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents a unique opportunity for
this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to the General Clin-
ton Canoe Regatta; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when organiza-
tions and events of such noble aims and accomplishments, and which serve
to bring people together for such glorious purposes, are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the General Clinton Canoe Regatta;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Bainbridge, New York, Chamber of Commerce.