Paddle along La Ruta Maya in a canoe this weekend

The thirteenth annual La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge kicks off Friday morning at seven o’clock on the banks of the Macal River in the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena.  The grueling hundred and seventy mile race will include teams of canoe paddlers representing various businesses across the country.  Onlookers will line the banks of the Macal, Mopan and Belize Rivers as the competition makes its way to the final stop at the foot of the Belcan Bridge in Belize City on Baron Bliss Day.  Along the way participants will vie for station prizes and a shot at taking the coveted title.  Last year’s challenge saw the Belize Bank team emerge victorious over ninety-three other racers who commenced the tourney at the foot of the Hawkesworth Bridge.  Organizers are expecting full turnout of teams. An official ceremony will kick off the race at Macal Park tonight with a cultural extravaganza. News Five will follow the competition from start to finish. Highlights of the kickoff in San Ignacio will be aired live, only on this station, so keep it locked on Five at seven o’clock on Open Your Eyes.