The New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association (NECKRA) is off to a fast start in 2005, introducing some new features to their web site (www.neckra.org) designed to provide additional benefits to race directors, advertisers and paddlers of all skill levels.  While many people still have their boats in winter storage, NECKRA has been busy working on ways to get more people excited about this growing sport and hobby.  "Like any 'fair-weather sport', just because you aren't out on the water in the winter doesn't mean you aren't already thinking about and preparing for it.  We are trying to build our site out as a learning station and reference guide to the sport of canoe and kayak racing", said Tim Allen, administrator of the web site.

"Whether you want to scramble down some river rapids, glide along on more calm water, participate in competitive races, or cruise around and take in the sights - we want to provide you with information to help you meet your goals", said Tim.  "The sport of canoe and kayak racing is not very well known to the general public, but does have a significant following in the New England area, and is a great form of exercise."

NECKRA was originally founded in 1979 as the Connecticut Canoe Racing Association.  Since that time, the organization has grown to provide many benefits, including both printed and online race schedules, insightful newsletters, and a points series to encourage people to participate in more races throughout the year.  In recent years, they also added a training web page to list common locations and days where groups get out and train together, and an e-mail discussion group (The Paddlers' Connection) to help New England area paddlers announce races, training schedules, and helpful tips.

The 2005 season brings many additional benefits.  A new Bulletin Board Knowledge Sharing section of NECKRA's web site allows people to share opinions on topics such as training, technique, canoe and kayak models, transporting your boats, drafting and more in a format designed to be used as a reference tool.  The Media section of the site has been built out to include more tools to help spread the word  to more people, and build enthusiasm for the sport.  A new Online Store has been created, providing print-on-demand paddling merchandise.  And finally, a Race Directors section of the site is being built out to help organizers plan, advertise and execute their races.

"Our goal is to advance the sport of whitewater and flatwater marathon canoe and kayak racing", said Tim.  "To reach that goal, we try to encourage new people to get involved, and support all aspects of the sport, including racers, race organizers and paddling-related businesses."  To learn more about this sport, and the New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association, visit them online at www.neckra.org.

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