Float from Portville to Olean, No kayak? No Problem !
From the GOACoC,
The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a number of updates to the Float the Allegheny river rafting and kayaking event, which is to be held on Saturday, May 18th.
“There has been no shortage of rain, or rain-related side effects and resulting headlines this Spring,” said Adam Jester, Interim Chamber Executive Director. “After some great feedback from the community, and productive discussions internally, the team has crafted a package of updates to ensure the health, safety, and maximize the fun for everyone who participates in this event.”
Chief among the updates are the start and end points of the Float. Participants will now drop in at the Portville Boat Launch on Steam Valley Road in Portville. They’ll make their way the 4 ¾ miles down the Allegheny River, and end the trip just west of the South Union St Bridge, near Franchot Park, where the event continues with the Official Afterparty. “Participants will have the option of getting out at the Olean Boat Launch, just off West Riverside Drive, on the south bank of that spot, or right at the landing that leads to Franchot, on the north bank of that location,” noted Christina Collins, GOACC Events Manager..
With registration at the launch point set to run from 10am to 12pm, and drop in from 11am to 12pm, organizers have built in time that morning for participants to park their vehicles at or near Franchot Park, and get back to the launch point for drop-in.
No kayak? No problem! Chamber Member A-1 Rent All & Sales is offering kayak, canoe, and mini-cruiser rentals to participants at a special rate. Those interested are asked to contact A-1 at 716-373-7368 as quantities are limited and are first come, first served.
The Afterparty also got a bit of a makeover, starting with its new location. The area near the baseball field, behind A-1 Rent All & Sales will play host to Randy’s Up the River and Sweet Ride food trucks, as well as Four Mile Brewing providing locally crafted beverages. Live music will be provided by Two Guys Drinking Beer, and a number of local vendors will be on hand to sell their products. The event will be held from 2pm to 5pm. “The public is welcome and encouraged to attend the party in the park, whether they participate in the Float itself, or are just looking for something fun to do that day,” Collins said.
Participants are encouraged to pre-register by May 11th, on the Chamber’s e-commerce site, https://shop.oleanny.com (click Shop, and then Chamber Events), or by emailing events@oleanny.com.
Float participants will each pay $20, and receive an Afterparty food voucher, a beverage ticket, and an exclusive event promo item. For folks who just wish to attend the Afterparty, food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Keep an eye on the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/OleanNYChamber for additional updates.
