Sunday morning rainstorms made for choppy waters, prompting organizers of the 10th annual Bird Island Challenge to cancel the event's namesake 13-mile race.

But the weather didn't stop participants in boats of all shapes and sizes from tackling the event's three- and six-mile courses. A total of 70 boats participated, netting $4,000 for the Gleason Family YMCA.

"Everyone seemed to understand" the cancellation of the 13-mile race to Bird Island in Marion and back, said Jo-Ann Watson, marketing and development director for the Gleason Y.

Most importantly, race director Hannah Moore said before the paddles hit the water, the first rule of the race was for "safety and fun."

The race course began and ended at Zecco Marina  and featured a three-mile leg to Long Beach in Wareham and a six-mile leg to Great Hill in Marion.

The course was peppered with public safety officials and volunteers, as Moore explained before the race: "to make sure that all the boats that go out are the same ones that come back in."

The race went off without a hitch, with participants ranging from grade-schoolers to seasoned adults.

There were only a few sprinkles until the last kayaker crossed the finish line.

"In spite of the weather, it was a great event," said Watson. "We had eight more boats than last year. ... Everyone seemed to have a good time."

The Bird Island Challenge raises money for the Gleason Family YMCA's scholarship fund, which provides financial assistance to families and individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford Y memberships and classes.

Check out the photo galleries for scenes from the Bird Island Challenge, and click below for full results!