2020 Manhattan circumnavigation

To all the Gerry Blackstone Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation family and friends: First, we hope that all of you are well and staying safe by following all the published guidelines in your state.

In this constantly evolving situation, we wanted to give you an update on the 2020 Gerry Blackstone Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation; a program of the Yonkers Paddling and Rowing Club. Our primary concern is always the health and safety of our volunteers, staff and participants in this event. We have been following all the New York State health bulletins as they are published and have consulted the Coast Guard, New York City Parks, New York City Harbor Patrol and New York City officials about holding the event this July.
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As of today, the Coast Guard is not accepting any Marine applications for events in June; New York City is not allowing any permits for events in public parks in June.

The Circumnavigation is scheduled to take place on July 25, 2020. With this level of uncertainty; we feel it is in the best interest for everyone involved to CANCEL the Gerry Blackstone Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation for this year.

We are all heartbroken especially since the event was cancelled for the first time in 15 years last year due to the extreme heat and New York City canceling ALL outdoor events that weekend.
We realize that this is a tremendous disappointment for the many participants who have dreamt of this opportunity for years, as well as for those who see this as an annual get-together with paddling buddies from near and far.

To those of you who had carried over a $70.00 credit to be applied to this year; we will be REFUNDING the money. If you do not receive it by 6/13/2020; please email us at [email protected]

We hope everyone gets safely through these unique times and we look forward to holding a bigger and better event in 2021.

​Thank you,
The Gerry Blackstone Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation team