The Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race in Saranac Lake Village
A tradition of craftsmanship and endurance in the Adirondack Tri-Lakes and High Peaks.
Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race on Lake Flower. All photos courtesy Green Side of the Big Apple.
Saranac Lake is famous for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant community. One of the most cherished events in this picturesque village is the Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race. This annual celebration has been honoring the legacy of a master boatbuilder and the enduring spirit of the Adirondacks for over 60 years.
Held every July, this event draws enthusiasts from far and wide to participate in a race that is as much about tradition as it is about competition. This year’s race is set for Sunday, July 7, 2024, during the July 4th holiday and the official start of the summer high season. The race includes all classes of Guideboats, Canoes, Kayaks and SUPs.
Preserving an Adirondack legacy.
Willard Hanmer, born in 1902, was a pivotal figure in the history of the Adirondack Guideboat. A skilled craftsman from Saranac Lake, Hanmer dedicated his life to perfecting the art of boatbuilding.
Master Adirondack guideboat builder, Willard Hanmer.
The Adirondack Guideboat, a uniquely designed craft known for its lightweight yet sturdy construction, became Hanmer’s specialty. These boats, ideal for navigating the region's 3,400 lakes and ponds and over 850 miles of wild and scenic rivers, were a testament to his meticulous attention to detail and innovative design.
Boat experts celebrated Hanmer's boats’ elegant lines, durability, and performance. He adhered to traditional methods while also incorporating his own improvements, making his guide boats highly sought after by guides and recreational users alike. His workshop in Saranac Lake became a hub for local artisans and a symbol of the region’s deep-rooted connection to its waterways.
The Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race: Tradition meets competition.
The Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race was established in 1962, a year after Hanmer’s death, to honor his contributions to boatbuilding and preserve the heritage of the Adirondack Guideboat. The race takes place on Lake Flower's waters, providing a perfect backdrop for this spirited competition.
Adirondack guideboats in the Tri-Lakes & High Peaks region.
The event has grown over the decades, evolving into a multi-day festival that includes various races, demonstrations, and community activities. However, the highlight remains the guideboat race, where participants row their handcrafted vessels across a challenging course, showcasing both their rowing prowess and the superior design of their boats.
The Hanmer attracts a diverse group of participants, from seasoned rowers to first-time competitors. The race is divided into several categories, including men's, women's, and mixed divisions, as well as various age groups. This inclusivity ensures that everyone, regardless of experience or skill level, can partake in the fun and excitement.
Participants row traditional Adirondack Guideboats, each a work of art and engineering. These boats are typically made from lightweight wood and feature a distinctive design that allows for speed and maneuverability. The race course on Lake Flower challenges rowers with its length and turns, testing their endurance and skill.
Celebrating the Adirondacks Tri-Lakes community.
The Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the Adirondacks Tri-Lakes community, which includes Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, and Tupper Lake. These communities come together each year to honor their shared history and enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Love boats? Check out the Runabout Rendezvous the day before the Hanmer in Saranac Lake.
In addition to the races, the event features a range of activities that highlight the region’s cultural and natural heritage. Visitors can enjoy boatbuilding demonstrations, historical exhibits, and guided tours that delve into the history of the Adirondack Guideboat. Local artisans and vendors also participate, offering handmade crafts, food, and other regional products.
The day before the Hanmer, on July 6, 2024, a “million dollar half mile” of wooden boats will appear on the shores of Lake Flower. The Runabout Rendezvous, hosted by Spencer Boatworks (Jay Annis) and The Woodward Boatshop (Chris Woodward), will allow the community to view some of the finest antique and custom wooden boats in the Adirondacks.
Visit the Green Side of the Big Apple’s website for detailed information about all the events surrounding the Hanmer Race.
Next generation guideboat builders.
As the Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race looks to the future, it continues to build on its tradition and community spirit legacy. Efforts to preserve the art of guideboat building and to engage younger generations are central to the event's mission. Educational programs and workshops are regularly offered, ensuring that the knowledge and skills associated with these iconic boats are passed down to future generations.
The race also reminds us of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Throughout the event, conservation efforts and sustainable practices are promoted, aligning with the community’s commitment to protecting their cherished environment.
The Willard Hanmer Guideboat Race in Saranac Lake celebrates craftsmanship, history, and community. It honors Willard Hanmer's legacy and the timeless appeal of the Adirondack Guideboat.
For more information about the race, visit the Green Side of the Big Apple’s website.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Saranac Lake.
