PHOTOS: Paddles’ tour around North Quabbin

Jen Adams, owner of Faceology in Petersham, shows Paddles what he will look like after his treatment. PHOTO BY MITCHELL GROSKY

Paddles with Birch Hill Dam Project Manager Zachary Koziel (second from left) and Park Rangers Dave Bylund (left) and Cole LaRose (right) while on a tour of the dam in Royalston. PHOTO BY MITCHELL GROSKY

Paddles and Moore-Leland Library Children’s Librarian April Violette for a reading of “Pie Rats Ahoy” by Richard Scarry. PHOTO BY MITCHELL GROSKY

During a visit to Kellie’s at 567 Main St. in Athol with Helen Hamel, owner Kellie McLaughlin, Kadie Jillson and Felicity Barilone. PHOTO BY MITCHELL GROSKY

Published: 04-07-2025 12:51 PM

Modified: 04-07-2025 1:07 PM

In recent weeks, Paddles, the Athol Lions River Rat Race Mascot, visited a number of locations in the North Quabbin in preparation for the annual race, including many event’s sponsors.

The Athol to Orange River Rat Race is on Saturday, April 12 at 1 p.m. You can sign up for this classic race online at https://www.RiverRatRace.com until Monday, April 7 at midnight. Signups for the race can also be done via the drop boxes at Else Where at 1485 Main St. in Athol or at Over The Top Bakery at 90 New Athol Road in Orange. Registrations continue via drop box through Wednesday, April 9. Register in person through April 9 at Over the Top Bakery from noon until 4 p.m. and next door at Frozen Orange from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Registration ends on Wednesday. PHOTOS BY MITCHELL GROSKY