The Massapequa Fire Department will host their 7th Annual Emergency Services Canoe Challenge Aug. 11. The race consists of a two-mile course to the Great South Bay, beginning and ending in John Burns Park in Massapequa. Those with the courage to compete with some of the bravest will receive a complimentary race day T-shirt and free refreshments after the race.

The proceeds from this year's Canoe Race Challenge will go the family of Victoria Yenzer, a 5-year-old stricken with spinal muscular atrophy. Victoria is the daughter of firefighter Doug Yenzer of Engine 286 FDNY and a Farmingdale volunteer firefighter.

"If last year's race was any indication of how much fun can be had by two people in a canoe, then you really have to experience it to see for yourself," said Thomas McCarthy, firefighter and co-chairman with Pat Byrnes of the Massapequa Fire Department Canoe Race Committee. "We really put our hearts and souls into this, and with the support of the local fire departments, the Massapequa Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and all those who participate, we've had some real success stories here."

Last year, over 83 two-person teams entered the race and over $7,000 was raised for Christian Cowan, a young girl with cystic fibrosis who needed a double lung transplant. Christina's lung transplant was so successful that she recently completed two miles in a local power walk. This year's goal is 100 canoes and $10,000 raised, McCarthy said.

The entrance fee is $100 per two-person canoe. Complimentary continental breakfast will be served at 8 a.m. The race begins at 9:30 a.m. and will end approximately at 1 p.m. Channel 12 News will be on the scene, and there will be live radio from the finish line. Hot dogs, hamburgers, Italian ices and beverages will be sold. Everything costs $1.

"Come enjoy a day outdoors and root for your favorite team to at least attempt to stay dry," McCarthy said. "Let's all try to make these people's lives a little easier."

For additional information or to register call MaryAnn Hayden at 798-2648 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.