The celebration of Veishea, which began in 1922, carries with it many traditions that have taken place for decades. One of these long-standing traditions is an annual canoe race that takes place on Lake LaVerne following the Veishea parade.

According to the Veishea Web site, the canoe races started in 1944 as a way for dormitories, fraternities and sororities to compete against each other in a race around Lake LaVerne.

Ryan Woebbeking, junior in agricultural studies and Veishea Olympics committee member, said the event is a great way for students and families of the community to spend the afternoon.

“It’s Saturday afternoon after the parade, so it gives people something to do afterwards,” he said. “It’s not only geared towards students, but towards families, too.”

Justin Jedlicka, senior in agricultural studies and Veishea Tournaments co-chairman, said the canoe race is a great tradition, because it symbolizes what Lake LaVerne has provided through the years to the community.

“Lake LaVerne is an icon of stuff that Veishea has done for the university,” Jedlicka said.

He added that it is hard to predict the turnout for this type of tournament because the event offers walk-up registration after the Veishea parade.

“A lot of our participants will come from walk-ins after the parade gets done,” he said. “It’s a good event for a father and son who want to participate in a canoe race together.”

Lindsay Becker, sophomore in finance and Veishea Olympics committee member, said she is really excited for her first experience with Veishea and has enjoyed helping plan this event.

“I’m most excited about seeing who all comes,” she said. “It’s my first Veishea but I know last time there were a lot of little kids and families so that will be fun to see.”

The canoe races will be held at 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, with registration at 1:30 p.m. Canoes, paddles and life jackets will be provided by Recreation Services.

To register for this event, participants can visit the Veishea tournament Web site at www.veishea.iastate.edu/tournaments/index.php or register at Lake LaVerne on the day of the races.