Local paddling enthusiasts can head to Washington County Sunday for the Whitney’s Tool Shed Machias River Race.

The race starts at 11 a.m. Registration opens at 9 a.m. The starting point is the northern end of First Machias Lake.

The 10-mile course opens with the Kartick pitch, a Class II-III rapid about 100 yards long with an optional portage trail. The river continues to the confluence of West Branch Stream, Boot Rips (Class II), eventually coming to the Route 9 overpass and Airline rapids.

The Airline rapids are Class II-III rapids about 300 yards long that start immediately after the overpass and end just before the finish line.

In addition to the traditional racing classes, organizers are also offering awards for the top high school, law enforcement, and business teams. Last year Washington Academy of East Machias was the high school winner, the Maine Warden Service took the law enforcement category, and Charles Dorr Dentistry won the business division.

The race is part of the Maine Canoe and Kayak Race Organization point series.

There will be a barbecue and entertainment by Ian Parker and Rumblestrip after the awards ceremony. To preregister call Whitney’s Tool Shed at 255-3392.