Guinness Book of World Records pooh-bahs keep close tabs on Lake Erie this morning, when hundreds of boaters come out for the World Record Canoe & Kayak Challenge. If approximately 800 boats can simultaneously sail off Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park, they’ll break the current record of 766, which was set by the Cleveland Metroparks in 2001. “Even if you’re not registered with the state, you’re welcome to join,” says Lake Metroparks recreation manager Bill Plessinger. “We’re hoping that people have boats behind their garages.”

As soon as boaters shove off from the shoreline, they’ll form a hand-to-vessel chain. A plane will then snap an overhead shot of the canoes and kayaks that will be sent to Guinness’ headquarters in London. Afterward, everyone celebrates with a game of volleyball. “We have a lot of reach with the boating community,” says Plessinger. “We know there’s 1,000 boaters out there. If we can get 800 of them, we’ll be happy.”
Sat., Aug. 18, 9 a.m.

This article appears in Aug 15-21, 2007.