SALISBURY — Organized by Boy Scout Troop 448 of Salisbury, the 34th annual South Yadkin River Canoe and Kayak Race will be held May 11.

The river course, which flows along the line between northern Rowan County and Davie County, extends for almost 6 miles, starting at the U.S. 601 access and finishing at the Hannah Ferry Road access (Salisbury city pump station), where the South Yadkin meets the Yadkin River.

The race goes through undeveloped areas, much of it forested conservation land. The Canoe & Kayak Race is affiliated with the U.S. Canoe Association and N.C. Canoe Racing Association.

Participants range from competitive canoe and kayak racers to recreational paddlers.

Late registration starts at 8 a.m. on race day. A mandatory prerace meeting and boat inspection will be held at 9:30 a.m., with the race beginning at 10 a.m.

A second start for solo canoe classes will begin at 11:30 a.m.

A shuttle back to the start will be provided. Concessions and awards are available at the race finish.

The entry fee is $20 per person. Registration is available by going to troop448.com.

The race was started by a group of canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts led by Sam Bonds and Jeff Gobble.

Jack Kepley, Scoutmaster emeritus for Troop 448, made hand-carved miniature paddles for the awards at the first race.

Troop 448 scouts participated in the race for many years and in recent years were involved in making framed certificates to award place finishers in each category.

After many years of service and support from Davie County, the original group was not able to continue to organize and coordinate the race.

In 2013, Troop 448 took over the responsibility to organize the race, which relies on volunteers. Rowan Rescue Squad provides safety personnel on the water, Davie County provides shuttle service, and Troop 448 coordinates activities and provides refreshments.

Sponsors provide the funding.