Annual raft race to launch on Saturday

On Saturday, Aug. 5, the 7th annual Rieger Regatta Raft Race will launch from Hickories Park in Owego at 8:30 a.m., and then float down the river with a final destination in Nichols, N.Y. by sundown. 

In addition to the launch on Saturday, the event will host a block party from noon until dark on Friday at the boat launch at Hickories Park. This will allow participants to dock their rafts on the river for an easy launch in the morning. 

Each year has a different theme, and this year, for organizer Jeffrey Rieg’s raft, there will be a casino theme. 

According to Rieg, “People travel from all over to take part in a fun day floating down the river with Captain Rieger on my raft or on rafts they have made themselves. The only requirement is that each person brings his or her own life jacket, as safety always comes first.” 

All are welcome to join in this fun event. Participants spend the day grilling, dancing, and playing games on the river. Rieg will also have shirts for sale on the day of the regatta. You can purchase them at the event, or call Rieg at (607) 765-8729. You can also find Jeffrey Rieg on Facebook. All the proceeds go to a charity of choice.  

Last year they had approximately 300 attend, but the river levels are up this year, so Rieg is expecting the levels to be perfect for Saturday. Spectators, as usual, will be able to view the rafts as they float down the river on Saturday.