Breaking Records: One Square Mile of Hope in Inlet, NY
Community, hope, Guinness World Records and the support great causes in the Adirondacks.
One Square Mile of Hope set their first Guiness World Record in 2008. All photos courtesy One Square Mile of Hope.
In the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, lodged among lush forests and pristine waters, lies Fourth Lake in Inlet, NY. This tranquil setting becomes a hub of activity and excitement every few years when thousands of paddlers gather for the One Square Mile of Hope event.
Since 2008, this monumental occasion has garnered multiple Guinness World Records. It started with a small group of very focused and determined individuals who came together to break and retake the Guinness Book of World Records several times for the largest raft of canoes, kayaks and guide boats while raising funds for a great cause.
This remarkable gathering is not just about breaking world records; it’s about community, hope, and the fight against breast cancer and important causes.
The Origin of One Square Mile of Hope.
One Square Mile of Hope began in 2008 from a community’s desire to make a difference. Connie Perry, owner of Frisky Otter Tours, and friends were inspired to find a unique way to support breast cancer research and awareness, and drive community engagement.
Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to gather the largest number of canoes, kayaks, and guide boats in a rafted formation on the water while raising funds for a cause affecting millions of people worldwide.
Setting World Records over and over again.
The flotilla as seen from above.
The 2008 inaugural event set the first Guinness World Record for the largest raft of canoes and kayaks, with 1,104 boats participating.
The event’s success and the unity it fostered inspired the organizers and participants to aim even higher in subsequent years. The records continued to be shattered, with notable milestones achieved in 2011 and 2014, attracting participants from all over the country and worldwide.
In 2014, One Square Mile of Hope saw 3,150 boats forming a massive floating raft on Fourth Lake, setting a new world record. This event raised over $100,000 for breast cancer research and support services, demonstrating the power of community and collective action. They reclaimed the Guinness world record title and solidified One Square Mile of Hope as a symbol of resilience and unity.
After holding this record for nine years and many requests to do it again, One Square Mile of Hope announced that on September 14, 2024, they would be out to break their own record while raising funds for some great new causes.
Community spirit and environmental stewardship.
Community involvement is essential to One Square Mile of Hope.
One of the hallmarks of One Square Mile of Hope is the sense of community it fosters. Participants come from Inlet, New York State towns, and villages across the United States.
Families, friends, and solo paddlers find common ground on Fourth Lake, united by a shared purpose.
The event is a testament to what can be achieved when people unite for a cause larger than themselves.
The 2024 event will benefit Golisano Children’s Hospitals in Syracuse and Rochester, which support Adirondack families, as well as local First Responder organizations.
Moreover, One Square Mile of Hope emphasizes environmental stewardship. The event organizers take great care to preserve Fourth Lake's natural beauty.
Participants are encouraged to practice “leave no trace” principles, and the event includes efforts to clean up the lake and surrounding areas. This commitment to environmental responsibility ensures that the lake remains pristine for future generations to enjoy.
How to participate in the 2024 One Square Mile of Hope event.
Interested in being part of another Guinness World Records event? But even more important, are you looking for a way to raise funds to support worthy local causes? The One Square Mile Event is for you if you can handle a kayak, canoe or guideboat.
Anyone can register online until Thursday, September 12, 2024, at noon. Visit the One Square Mile of Hope registration page to secure your spot in this epic event.
Beyond 2024.
Looking ahead, the legacy of One Square Mile of Hope continues to inspire. The Inlet community and the event organizers remain committed to their mission, and there is little doubt that future events will continue to draw participants and supporters from near and far.
Whether breaking records or simply gathering to paddle and raise awareness, One Square Mile of Hope stands as a beacon of unity, resilience, and hope in the fight against breast cancer.
One Square Mile of Hope is more than just an event; it is a movement that brings people together in a powerful display of solidarity and support. On the serene waters of Fourth Lake, thousands of paddlers form a living testament to the strength of the community and the enduring hope that drives us all.
For more information, visit One Square Mile of Hope’s website.
