Parks and Recreation

May 26, 2016 by Staff Report

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT

For more information on these programs, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit them online at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.

Caveman Crawl 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk

June 12

Registration for Geauga Park District’s sixth annual Caveman Crawl 5K trail run and new 1-mile fun walk at the West Woods in Russell Township is open. Registration forms are available at http://bit.ly/gpdcaveman. Participation costs $20 if completed online, at packet pickup or postmarked by June 8, and then $25 on race day, with the first 250 registrants guaranteed a commemorative T-shirt.

All proceeds from the race benefit the Chip Henry Institute for Outdoor Adventure, which funds youth programming in the parks, including summer camps for youth entering grades five through 10.

For runners and walkers of the 5K, the course, just over 3.1 miles of hilly, well-graded dirt and gravel, includes portions of Ansel’s Cave Trail, known for its beautiful Sharon conglomerate rock outcropping, not to mention the forest views and wildlife just around the bend. All-terrain strollers are welcome.

Race winners in the 5K, chip-timed by Greater Cleveland XC, will take home handcrafted awards in the top three places overall, as well as the top three places in nine different age groups in both male and female categories. Plus, wear prehistoric garb and stand to win handcrafted awards for best costumes in youth and adult categories. Need a costume? Mention participation in the contest and receive 15 percent off at Perfect Occasion Costumes in Middlefield.

Race time is 9 a.m.; registration is from 7-8:30 a.m. Costume judging begins at 8:30 a.m.; and free food and awards will follow. All ages are welcome.

Vendor Spaces Available

Booth spaces are still available for the 11th annual flea market taking place July 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at The West Woods picnic area, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell Township.

Dozens of vendors will sell treasures such as antiques, collectibles, birdhouses, jewelry (new and old), tools, toys, furniture, rugs, plants, handmade materials, soaps, general household items and other bargains galore.

Outdoor spaces, the size of two parking spaces, can be reserved for $25, or an 8-foot picnic table under the shelter can be reserved for $15. Picnic tables sell out quickly.

Geauga County Ohio Horseman’s Council is hosting the event, so all application fees for vendor spaces will be payable to Geauga County OHC, but all proceeds from the event will benefit Geauga Park District’s Bridle Trail Fund.

For a registration form to purchase a spot, or for more information about Geauga County OHC’s benefit flea market, visit www.geaugacountyohc.com/flea-market.html or call Jennifer at 216-406-7639.

Out On The Water

Whether it’s before dawn, during the day or beneath a full moon, one’s time on the water will be the best part of the day. Register by phone for any of these opportunities to join a Geauga Park District naturalist out on a float not to forget.

Lost Lake Kayak Expedition

May 28, 1-4 p.m.

Upper Cuyahoga River, SR 87 Lot

Experienced kayakers ages 16 and older take a rugged, but rewarding, kayak trip to a remote, seldom-seen wild marsh accessed from the Upper Cuyahoga River. Registration required.

Polliwog Paddle Family Canoe

June 5, 1-3 p.m.

Eldon Russell Park

An easy-paced, short-distance float for families with kids ages 5 and older. Registration starts May 29.

Basic Learn To Kayak

June 18, 9 a.m. to noon

Eldon Russell Park

Learn basic kayak-handling techniques for safe kayaking on flat water. Ages 10 and older. Registration starts June 10.

Basic Learn To Canoe

June 18, 1-4 p.m.

Eldon Russell Park

Learn basic canoe-handling techniques for safe canoeing on flat water. Ages 10 and older. Registration starts June 10.

Unless specified, programs are designed for those already comfortable with being out on the water; no lessons will be given.

Youth entering grades five through 10 can also have kayak adventures independently during Geauga Park District’s Summer Camps beginning the week of June 13, with teens entering grades eight through 10 specifically invited to X-Treme Day: LaDue Kayak on July 6. Visit http://bit.ly/gpdcamps for information.