Welcome to Queen City Paddle's

 Heat Stroke 2019

Meridian's 1st ever paddling event! Compete and hang out with fellow paddlers in a laid-back environment on a beautiful city lake with no boat traffic while contributing to a worthy cause. This is perfect for folks of all athletic abilities from beginners to accomplished paddlers. Most human-powered paddled craft welcome.

Our Cause

Meridian’s own Hope Village for Children gives those who have had a life of hardship a place of love and hope. Whether they have come from a world of abuse, or neglect, or tragedy; a child should be exempt from the worst of circumstances, not forced to become immune to them. All profits go directly to this amazing group.

Races

3 Mile – 1 lap around upper lake (see course map)

6 Mile – 2 laps around upper lake (see course map)

KIDS' Race - Series of 500 meter out-and-back dashes on paddle boards (boards and gear provided). This is a free event for any interested kids or kids-at-heart.

Awards for top finishers of each class. T-shirts, goodies, and food for all participants.

If interested, paddlers are encouraged to give demos for the attending youth and spectators following the race.

Be prepared to sweat and have fun!

How you can help

Your participation alone will be a huge boost to the children of Hope Village, but please take the time to look over the following list of items and consider bringing something to donate. We’ll have a drop-off location for these items at the race along with a container for cash donations. Every little bit helps!

YOU CAN HELP THE CHILDREN OF HOPE VILLAGE BY DONATING ITEMS THAT WE NEED AND USE REGULARLY:

Paper towels – we never have enough of these!

Dishwasher detergent pods

Washing machine detergent pods

Journals for both boys and girls – every child receives one at Christmas

Rolling duffle bags – we give each child luggage at Christmas since many carry their few belongings in trash bags from place to place

Makeup sets – fun sets for teenage girls since we give each girl one at Christmas

Bath and body sets for girls and boys – each child receives a set at Christmas

Accommodations

Hotels: Plenty of hotels in Meridian but the following are conveniently located within ½ mile of the park entrance. We are presently negotiating group discounts and will update:

Hampton Inn*

103 US-11, Meridian, MS 39301

601.483.3000

*Mention "Heat Stroke" while reserving for special discount

Hilton Garden Inn*

109 US-11, Meridian, MS 39301

601.485.3506

*Mention "Heat Stroke" while reserving for special discount

Home2 Inn and Suites*

210 N Frontage Rd, Meridian, MS 39301

601.282.9710

*Mention "Heat Stroke" while reserving for special discount

Tru by Hilton

519 Azalea Dr, Meridian, MS 39301

601.531.4100

Comfort Inn

701 Bonita Lakes Dr, Meridian, MS 39301

601.693.1200

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham

518 Bonita Lakes Dr, Meridian, MS 39301

601.621.4279

Campers:  There is no camping at the park itself but Bonita Lakes RV Park is located less than 1 mile from the park entrance and is offering a discounted rate of $25/night to all athletes.

Bonita Lakes RV Park

694 Mitchum Road, Meridian, MS 39301

601.483.4330