First
across the lineRat Race '05
The Race
Some 305 teams of canoeists launched their boats at 1 p.m. April 9 in the 42nd annual River Rat Race.
Randy Martin of Swanzey, N.H., and Dana Henry of New Berlin, N.Y.,
were the overall winners, passing 98 other teams en the way to victory. The mixed division was won by Dave Dorsey and Kris Dorsey of Phillipston, while Susan Morris of Milton, N.H., and Chris Smith of Southampton were the first women to finish.
Last year’s winners, Brent Lyesiuk of Orange, and John Berry of Petersham, finished ninth overall,
and won the award for most canoes passed. The two started from 298 position and overtook 289 other canoeists before
reaching the finish line Orange. No. 2 Finisher was the
beer-powered Wachusett Brewing Co. team.
The race is sponsored by the Athol Lions Club.
Complete Results Click Here on Monday
First
across the line
The Beer
Co. Crew
AOTV was
there. 
Spectators lined the banks
Waiting to
load out. 
Canoe Crew
Veteran
on the shore
You go,
girl! 
Racing Rep.
Two
guys can only do so much.
Practice session.
The LaPointe Canoe '05 -- Heading for Practice on the River a Week Before the Race
The river was high and fast. At the corner near Country Convenience, canoeists are queuing up for practice runs now that the ice is gone. A van owned by Brent Lyesiuk, with John Berry, winners in 2004, has been seen parked at the launch point several times in the past few days.
Reprints of your favorite photos are available after the race. Order by e-mail at Photos.