CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified the Michigan Canoe Racing Association as the host of the race.
A water rescue in Frankfort Saturday turned somber as a canoer struggled to recover during a race.
The Michigan Canoe Racing Association confirmed one of their members, Nick Walton, died during a race from Point Betsie to Peterson Beach in Benzie County.
They said on their Facebook, Walton and many others fell off of their boats multiple times during the race, as the winds were strong and the air temperatures were in the low 50s.
They said the race organizers could see him struggling to get back on his canoe.
The Coast Guard confirmed they were called to the scene, and picked Walton up by helicopter and transported him to Munson Hospital in Traverse City – where he was pronounced dead.
The City of Frankfort Fire and Rescue were also called to the scene, and released photos on their Facebook of the recovery efforts.
The Canoe Racing Association said Walton will be missed by many in the community.
© 2023 - 910 Media Group
