Governor Andrew Cuomo says the state will sponsor a national rafting and paddling competition called the Adirondack Challenge this year.
In his State of the State speech Wednesday, Cuomo said the new event will bring international attention to the beauty and recreational opportunities of the Adirondacks and attract more tourism.
Essex County Board of Supervisors Chair Randy Douglas expects the Adirondack Whitewater Challenge to have a positive economic impact.
Cuomo said the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park has 3,000 lakes and ponds and 30,000 miles of rivers and streams that offer world-class fishing, canoeing, kayaking and whitewater rafting opportunities.
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