The Alabama Scenic Rivers Trail 650 mile paddle race began at 10 a.m. Saturday on Weiss Lake from the causeway launch site on highway 9 north of Centre.

20 Paddle Racers began the 650 mile trek down the rivers and waterways from Centre and Weiss Lake to Fort Morgan on Mobile Bay. Racers have 10 days to complete the race.

Martha Mize, Development and Outreach Coordinator, tells about the event.

There will be a watch party for the Racers Saturday evening at Buffalo Wild Wings in Gadsden that starts at 6 so you can cheer on your favorite racer.

You can follow the racers along the way on the Alabama Scenic River Trail website at AL650.com and on Social Media: @GreatAlabama650 and #AL650.