Cornerstone Bank has donated $2,500 to sponsor the Athol/Orange 2026 River Rat Race, with Pete’s Tire Barns matching the contribution to further strengthen support for the annual community tradition.
Hosted by the Athol/Orange Lions Club, the River Rat Race will take place April 11, 2026, with the starting cannon firing at 1 p.m. Canoes will travel more than five miles along Millers River from Athol to the finish line at Riverfront Park in Orange. The day’s festivities also include the Big Cheese 5K, a pancake breakfast and an afternoon awards ceremony.
This year’s event continues a long tradition of giving back. Funds raised through registrations, sponsorships and event activities are distributed by the Lions Club to support local families, youth programs and community initiatives, along with select global causes.
“Cornerstone Bank is proud to support an event that celebrates our region while making a meaningful difference for local residents,” said Dan Zona, president of Cornerstone Bank and former president and CEO of Athol Savings Bank. “The River Rat Race showcases the generosity and spirit of the North Quabbin community, and we are honored to help advance its charitable mission.”
Pre-race activities begin on April 10 with the annual position drawing at Athol Town Hall. Spectators are encouraged to gather along the riverbanks and Main Street Bridge to cheer on paddlers as they await the 1 p.m. start.
PHOTO (L-R) Joanne Rich, Athol Lions Club; Tim Bowen, AVP, Mortgage Loan Officer; Taylor Crawford, Customer Relations Manager (Athol Branch); Paddles the River Rat Race Mascot; Alivia Melanson, Customer Relations Specialist (Athol Branch)
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