A lot of questions on the canoe situation; since I have been getting many questions, that means probably a lot more are out there.

My first order of business for next week is attempting to partner up with an outfitter in the area to get you guys a discounted rate. If you do not have a canoe for the race, you will have to rent one. You can rent from whomever you like, but as mentioned I'm gonna try to save you guys a little $ per canoe from the outfitter.

Was in the middle of negotiating it with another outfitter but it fell through, so not dropping the ball, just picking it up again.

Now, as to the type of craft, we do require it be a canoe.  And as mentioned on the gear section, you will want to be careful about the material of the canoes.  Owners of canoes that are known to be fragile (some aluminum racing boats, kevlar, fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc) should seriously consider bringing something a bit tougher (aluminum, plastic, royalex).  You've been warned.  I will not prohibit their use (explained here), but the financial burden of repairs/replacement is yours to bear.