STURBRIDGE — First-time paddlers and seasoned veterans braved the swift currents and boat-capsizing rapids of the Quinebaug River Sunday. More than 120 entered the Sturbridge Lions All-American River Race, a charity event that raises money for eye research.

"Why do I do this? I love to meet new people. It's a perfect opportunity to get out in nature and be wild," said Andrew Benoit, 30, of Southbridge.

He was part of a three-man canoe team that also included the brothers Andrew Rucci, 31, of Southbridge and Jake Rucci, 15, who was competing in the river race for the first time.

The course begins at Turners Field in Sturbridge and runs along the river to the finish line at Westville Dam Recreation Area in Southbridge.

The contestants go off one craft at a time, one minute apart, which requires concentration, said the two Lions Club race starters, Mark Sonaci, 48, and Jeff Chasse, 58, both of Sturbridge.

"The biggest thing is paying attention," Mr. Chasse said.

He said the organization is about charity work.

"We raise money for seeing- and hearing-impaired" people, he said, describing the Lions Club as "just a good bunch of people trying to help those less fortunate. It is a goodwill club."

"The rapids are awesome," said Valerie Spencer, 32, of Southbridge, who was racing for the second year in a row.

"Our only goal is, don't flip," she said.

Katie Krikorian, 28, and Dave Shepard, 29, of Southbridge named their canoe after their 3-year-old daughter, Kayla.

Ms. Krikorian said that while she has been in a canoe, she has never experienced the Quinebaug River.

"I'm just hoping the rapids don't tip me over," she said.

Michael Ambrogi, 27, traveled from Olympia, Wash., to visit family in Connecticut, and to paddle in a race he has enjoyed competing in since he was a teenager.

"This is beautiful," he observed, "to be out on the river."

Fred Thompson and Charley Brackett posted the best overall time, tackling the 6.2 miles of Quinebaug River as a duo in 49 minutes, 37 seconds.

The top female was Melissa Tweedie, paddling solo at 59 minutes, 1 second.

In the single male division, it was Brian Beaupre with a winning time of 51 minutes, 45 seconds.