ANTRIM COUNTY — More than 200 paddlers took to the Chain of Lakes Water Trail for the 10th Annual Paddle Antrim Festival, marking a 24% increase in participation from recent years.

According ot a Sept. 23 news release from the organization, this year 63 paddlers completed the full 42-mile route from Ellsworth to Elk Rapids.

Two participants have now finished the entire distance every year since the festival began in 2015.

“The festival was a true celebration of our waterways and community,” said Deana Jerdee, executive director of Paddle Antrim. “We’re grateful to everyone who joined us on the water and helped make this 10th anniversary so special.”

The event was supported by top sponsors Short’s Brewing Company and the Great Lakes Sports Commission, along with 22 Wavemakers—local busi

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