WAPPINGERS CREEK WATER DERBY
The 50th Running of the Wappingers Creek Water Derby
The Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) has teamed up with the Aquatic Explorers Scuba Club (AESC) to bring back the annual spring Wappingers Creek Water Derby for 2025. This canoe and kayak racing event is scheduled for Saturday, 26 April 2025 in Pleasant Valley NY. The Wappingers Creek Water Derby was originally started in 1970 by WWII Submariner Veterans and ran continuously until 2019. The 2025 event will be the 50th running of this race, and we invite the Veterans and Military Members in the Hudson Valley to join us as we return this highly popular event to the Hudson Valley. For more information, you can visit the following links:
The Hudson Valley Submarine Veterans - A WWII Veterans based organization began the Wappingers Creek Water Derby in 1970 and ran the derby until the 1990's. Originally founded by a Dutchess County sports legend Henry "Moose" Karn, who served on the USS Pomfret (SS-391) during the Second World War, Moose was also one of the founders of the Dutchess County Sports Museum. He founded many local Little Leagues as well as the Wappingers Creek Water Derby.
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The Aquatic Explorers Scuba Club (AESC) which is based out of American Legion Post 1302 in Poughkeepsie NY, gradually took over the Annual Wappingers Creek Water Derby from the Hudson Valley Submarine Veterans starting in the 1990's, and successfully ran the Wappingers Creek Water Derby until 2019.
WAPPINGERS CREEK WATER DERBY AWARDS CEREMONY
The Wappingers Creek Water Derby Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025 during our Annual Whiskey Bourbon & BBQ Event. All race participants will receive FREE admission to this event, where race medals and trophies will be presented.
New for 2025: We will be presenting awards in honor of the brave service members who served locally in the US Military that valiantly lost their lives fighting to safeguard our great nation.
Jerome Mark Patrick Dominguez
Officer Jerome Dominguez was killed in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks while attempting to rescue the victims trapped in the World Trade Center.
Officer Dominguez was a member of the New York Air National Guard who had served with the New York City Police Department for 14 years and was assigned to ESU Truck 3. He is survived by his fiancee, parents, and brother.
He was posthumously awarded the New York City Police Department's Medal of Honor for his heroic actions.
In Honor of NYPD Police Officer and 105th SFS Veteran Jerome Mark Patrick Dominguez, a trophy will be awarded in his memory to the fastest Individual Kayaker for the 2025 Wappingers Creek Water Derby who is both a Military Veteran and also either a active or retired Sworn Law Enforcement Officer
The Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025
Andrew Brunn
Andrew Christopher Brunn was born on April 27‚ 1973 and died in the line of duty at the World Trade Center on September 11‚ 2001 as a member of Ladder 5 in Greenwich Village. He served in the New York Air National Guard as a member of the 213 Engineering Installation Squadron for 10 years‚ reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. He began his service to New York City as an NYPD officer in August 1993‚ attaining the rank of Sergeant in January 2001. Wanting to do more for New York and its people‚ he joined the FDNY in May 2001. Even though he was still a ‘probie’ when he died‚ the officers and firefighters of his firehouse knew he would have been one of the ‘great ones.’ He was a natural leader. Andrew was very intelligent‚ honest‚ godly‚ and noble. He was extremely sensitive and caring. He would always help out‚ without ever being asked. His sense of humor‚ even in the worst of circumstances‚ was unflagging.
Andrew was a dedicated family man‚ devoted to his wife Sigalit‚ his father Andy‚ and his younger sister Christina. A loyal friend to old schoolmates and co-workers alike‚ all of whom miss him dearly. He was especially talented at computer science‚ a favorite hobby. He excelled at anything he tried and loved surfing‚ snowboarding‚ skateboarding‚ fishing and riding on roller coasters‚ the bigger the better!!!
In Honor of Sgt. ANDY BRUNN (FDNY) "VETERAN FIREFIGHTER " trophy will be awarded in his memory to the fastest Individual Kayaker or Canoer for the 2025 Wappingers Creek Water Derby who is either a member of the US Military, Active Duty, Guard or Reserve or a Military Veteran and either currently or a Retired Fire Fighter (Paid/Volunteer/EMT).
The Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025
Todd J. Lobraico Jr.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Todd J. Lobraico Jr. also known as "TJ" was killed in action in September 2013 while serving on active duty in Afghanistan with the United States Air Force. During a night foot patrol, TJ interrupted an enemy IED team and prevented an ambush that would have cost American service member lives. In the ensuing firefight between enemy forces, TJ was killed in action by small arms fire. He became the first killed-in-action casualty from Stewart Air Base since the Vietnam War.
Sgt. Todd J. Lobraico Jr. from the 105th Base Defense Squadron was a 2008 New Fairfield High School graduate, attended Western Connecticut State University as a JLA major and aspired to continue his public service as a police officer. As an airman, TJ followed the family legacy of military service that began with his grandparents and continued with his parents, Todd and Linda.
Sgt. Todd J. Lobraico Jr. also known as "TJ" was a sergeant with the 105th Base Defense Squadron, Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh NY. After the loss of TJ, a foundation was created in his honor.
In Honor of Sgt. Todd J. Lobraico Jr. the "LIVE FOR TJ" trophy will be awarded in his memory to the fastest Individual Kayaker or Canoer for the 2025 Wappingers Creek Water Derby who is either a member of the US Military, Active Duty, Guard or Reserve or a Military Veteran and currently attending College.
The Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025
Louis M. "BONES" Bonacasa
Staff Sergeant Louis M. Bonacasa was killed in the line of duty on December 21, 2015 while conducting outside-the-wire human intelligence operations near Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan.
Staff Sgt. Bonacasa and Tech Sgt. Joseph Lemm heroically placed themselves between their team members and a terrorist’s explosive-laden motorcycle. Although they and four others lost their lives, their actions saved the lives of two of their fellow team members and an Afghan Defender.
Bonacasa, an East Patchogue, New York native, enlisted in the Air Force after graduating from high school in 2002. In 2010, he joined the 105th Airlift Wing and was assigned to the 105th Security Forces Squadron, Stewart Air National Guard Base. He served four tours among Qatar, Iraq and Afghanistan.
He is survived by his wife Deborah, who is a veteran, and their daughter Lilianna.
Lilianna - "Lilly" has a charity in which she collects toys for children. Please visit her site here:
The Heart & Hearth Award - In Honor of Louis "BONES" Bonacasa will be awarded by Celebrating a veteran who, like Lou, was a great father, a provider, and a source of warmth for those around him. This award will go to the fastest kayaking or canoeing team of Father/Son, Father/Daughter, Mother/Son, or Mother/Daughter in which at least one team member is a Veteran.
The Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025
Joseph Lemm
Officer Joseph Lemm, also known as “Superman” to his family and friends, was a technical sergeant with the 105th Security Forces Squadron and a detective with the New York Police Department (15-year NYPD veteran).
He also worked tirelessly as a first responder during the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Everyone knew him as “Superman,” not because of his size, but for how big his heart was. He never said “no” when someone asked him for help.
He was killed in the line of duty on December 21, 2015 while conducting outside-the-wire human intelligence operations near Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan
Tech Sgt. Lemm, along with Staff Sgt. Louis Bonacasa, heroically placed themselves between their team members and a terrorist’s explosive-laden motorcycle. Although they and four others lost their lives, their actions saved the lives of two of their fellow team members and an Afghan Defender.
He left behind his wife, Christine, and their two children, Brooke and Ryan.
In Honor of NYPD Police Officer and 105th BDS Veteran Joseph "SUPERMAN" Lemm, the SUPERMAN trophy will be awarded in his memory to the fastest Individual Kayaker or Canoer for the 2025 Wappingers Creek Water Derby who is either a member of the US Military, Active Duty, Guard or Reserve or a Military Veteran
The Awards Ceremony will take place on 20 September 2025
For those that are members of NECKRA, we're happy to announce that the Wappingers Creek Water Derby will be included in the race series this year. This provides NECKRA members another opportunity to earn points.
If interested, visit NECKRA.ORG for more information on their race series and how points work.
Wappingers Creek Water Derby Map Locations
The VSA was formed in 2016 by local Veterans, active duty Military personnel and local Law Enforcement officers to to raise money and provide Firearms Training and Sporting Activities for Hudson Valley Veterans and their families. In 2020 we became a Federally registered 501c3 Veterans Nonprofit.
In 2021 we started an annual fundraising Whiskey, Bourbon and BBQ event. The money raised during our annual fundraiser includes donations from individuals, organizations, and businesses. In 2025 we are restarting the Wappingers Creek Water Derby. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or donating towards our yearly fundraising event please use one of the links below. Thank you!
VSA SPONSORSHIP
BECOME A VSA EVENT SPONSOR
2025 WAPPINGERS CREEK WATER DERBY GOLD SPONSORSHIP
We Greatly Appreciate Your Upcoming Support
Gold Sponsors are Businesses or Individuals that donate $5000 to the Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) in 2025. Gold Sponsors will receive 50 VIP Tickets to our 2025 Whiskey, Bourbon and BBQ, Free Advertisement on both the Whiskey, Bourbon & BBQ and Wappingers Creek Water Derby event webpages, Custom Banners displayed during both events, and personal booths set up during both of these events. All donations are tax deductible and go directly towards supporting local Hudson Valley Veterans. The VSA is a Federally Registered 501c3 Veterans Nonprofit.
Thank You to Our Confirmed 2025 Corporate Event Gold Sponsors!
YOUR NAME HERE
Please Support Local Veterans
Your Donation will directly support Veterans in the Hudson Valley. Click the link below to email us and become one of our Top Sponsor for 2025. We will reply with information on donation payment options, and verify your donation as well as your information for the tax credit you will receive for donating. Thank you for your sponsorship!
2025 WAPPINGERS CREEK WATER DERBY SILVER SPONSORSHIP
We Greatly Appreciate Your Upcoming Support
Silver Sponsors are Businesses or Individuals that donate $1000 to the Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) in 2025. Silver Sponsors receive 10 VIP Tickets to the 2025 Whiskey, Bourbon and BBQ EVENT and Free Advertisement on both the Whiskey, Bourbon & BBQ event and Wappingers Creek Water Derby webpages. All donations are tax deductible and go directly towards local Hudson Valley Veterans.
The VSA is a Federally Registered 501c3 Veterans Nonprofit.
Thank You to Our Confirmed 2025 Silver Sponsors!
Northern Dutchess Rod and Gun Club
$ 1000 Donation Made to the VSA
Founded in 1933, Northern Dutchess Rod & Gun Club is an organization of men, women, and children, who enjoy outdoor pursuits. The club exists primarily to provide our members with hunting, fishing, target shooting, hiking, and a quality outdoor experience with the opportunity to meet and socialize with others who also love these pursuits. The club embraces the principles of ethical management and harvest of wildlife and other natural resources.
YOUR NAME HERE
Support Local Veterans
Your Donation will directly support Veterans in the Hudson Valley. Click the link below to email us and become one of our Top Sponsor for 2025. We will reply with information on donation payment options, and verify your donation as well as your information for the tax credit you will receive for donating. Thank you for your sponsorship!
2025 WAPPINGERS CREEK WATER DERBY
BRONZE SPONSOR
We Greatly Appreciate Your Upcoming Support
Bronze Sponsors are Businesses or Individuals that donate $500 to the Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) in 2025. Bronze Sponsors receive 5 VIP Tickets to the Whiskey, Bourbon and BBQ and Free Advertisement on the Whiskey, Bourbon & BBQ and Wappingers Creek Water Derby event webpages. All donations are tax deductible and go directly towards local Hudson Valley Veterans. The VSA is a Federally Registered 501c3 Veterans Nonprofit.
Thank You to Our Confirmed 2025 Bronze Sponsors!
YOUR BUSINESS NAME
Show Your Support for Local Veterans
All Donations directly support sporting events and activities for Local Veterans and their Families. Click the link below to email us and become one of our Top Sponsor for 2025. We will reply with information on donation payment options, and verify your donation as well as your information for the tax credit you will receive for donating. Thank you for your sponsorship!
Frank L.
$ 500 Donation Made to the VSA
Thank you Frank for your donation of a Rare 1980’s 18’ Grumman Canoe and a donation of $500. You and your family will be receiving VIP Tickets to our Whisky Event.
MENGLER MECHANICAL
$ 500 Donation Made to the VSA
Mechanical Contractors established in 2001 and incorporated in NY.
YOUR BUSINESS NAME
Show Your Support for Local Veterans
All Donations directly support sporting events and activities for Local Veterans and their Families. Click the link below to email us and become one of our Top Sponsor for 2024. We will reply with information on donation payment options, and verify your donation as well as your information for the tax credit you will receive for donating. Thank you for your sponsorship!
The Louis "BONES" Bonacasa Family
The Bonacasa Family has very generously donated a Kayak to the VSA for our Veterans Kayaking Program
The family of Louis "BONES" Bonacasa Family has very generously donated a Kayak on behalf of Bones to the Veterans Sportsmens Association, which will be used for all future VSA Veterans Kayaking events. Once all of the names and appropriate markings are affixed to Louis Kayak, a dedication ceremony will take place with the Bonacasa Family. Thank you for your sponsorship and allowing us to Help Keep Bones Alive !
YOUR BUSINESS NAME
Show Your Support for Local Veterans
All Donations directly support sporting events and activities for Local Veterans and their Families. Click the link below to email us and become one of our Top Sponsor for 2025. We will reply with information on donation payment options, and verify your donation as well as your information for the tax credit you will receive for donating. Thank you for your sponsorship!
PLEASE USE A LINK BELOW TO BECOME A 2025 SPONSOR
SPONSORSHIPS
Mon, Mar 24Pleasant Valley
Mon, Mar 24Pleasant Valley
Mon, Mar 24Pleasant Valley
Sat, Apr 26Pleasant Valley
AMAZON KAYAK
PURCHASE LINK
KAYAK DONATION
ATTENTION: IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN DONATING A NEW OR USED KAYAK TO VETERANS ON BEHALF OF YOUR BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION
PLEASE CONTACT US
ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE
VENDORS
The Following Vendors Are Confirmed
SHREDVETS
ShredVets is a volunteer Veteran-run, Veteran-only Snow Sports peer group. No cost. All skill levels
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CRAZY CAT LADY THERAPY FOR VETERANS
Our Mission:
To serve our veterans by inspiring and uniting them through a community of compassion, respect, dignity, and accountability. To provide alternative therapies without medical intervention through creative art workshops, pet therapy, and empowering activities (i.e. yoga, hikes) that build and replenish cognitive abilities and cement a social support system. Our utmost goal is to reduce suicide, homelessness, and incarceration rates in veterans and service members.
BLUE STAR MOTHERS, HUDSON VALLEY
We support the efforts and sacrifices of our active military and veterans through activities, fundraising and, community projects.
MHA DUTCHESS VETERANS PROGRAMS
Vet2Vet is funded by the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans’ Peer Services Project. Services include support groups, social activities, assistance in finding housing and/or employment for homeless veterans, advocacy for benefits, and much more:
HUDSON VALLEY VETERANS ALLIANCE
The mission of The Alliance is to help provide assistance, information, and build support networks for Veterans, by Veterans, throughout the Hudson Valley .
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HUDSON VALLEY HONOR FLIGHT
Hudson Valley Honor Flight is a 501c3 nonprofit organization which “Honors American Veterans” for all their sacrifices. We transport these heroes to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorials at no cost to them. We are a local hub of the National Honor Flight Network, which consists of over 100 independent non-profit “hubs” across America.
CLEAR PATH FOR VETERANS
Clear Path for Veterans is proud to be the leading provider of Dwyer Peer Support programs in New York State. We empower communities to give their veterans the exceptional care and outreach they deserve.
THE HUDSON VALLEY NATIONAL CENTER FOR VETERAN REINTEGRATION
The Hudson Valley National Center for Veteran Reintegration works to empower our military men and women to live successful, fulfilling lives. The mission of HVNCVR is to provide support for both our current military personnel while they are back home and our veterans by assisting them with their transition back into civilian life.
HUDSON VALLEY SKI CLUB
Our name says Ski Club, but we are year-round activities and adult social club based in the Mid-Hudson Valley of New York. Throughout our 85+ years, HVSC has offered ski trips to top resorts throughout the U.S., Europe and Canada, bike trips, scenic hikes, kayaking, sailing, cultural events, rafting, wine tasting parties and happy hours (which we have nicknamed “Race Training”).
WARRIOR BONFIRE PROGRAM
Warrior Bonfire Program provides opportunities that improve the lives of enemy combat-wounded veterans—Purple Heart recipients—on their long journey of recovery and healing
JD'S ARMS & MUNITIONS
At JD's Arms & Munitions, we're committed to offering quality products, unparalleled service, and the most competitive prices in town. JD's is a Veteran owned FFL in New Paltz NY
North River Roasters
Coffee roasters producing sustainable products to our community.☕️ Providing veterans and other disabled individuals with workforce training and development.🤲🏼
Operated by Mid-Hudson Works.🎖️
NORTHERN DUTCHESS ROD & GUN CLUB
Founded in 1933, Northern Dutchess Rod & Gun Club is an organization of men, women, and children, who enjoy outdoor pursuits. The club exists primarily to provide our members with hunting, fishing, target shooting, hiking, and a quality outdoor experience with the opportunity to meet and socialize with others who also love these pursuits. The club embraces the principles of ethical management and harvest of wildlife and other natural resources.
MORE VENDORS COMING SOON!
Our Vendor List Is Being Updated
