BLACK RIVER, N.Y. -- A massive rock that threatened the annual Watertown kayaking events is finally out of the water. The rock was right in the middle of the Route 3 wave on the Black River where the kayakers compete in National and International Championships each summer.

Not only did it affect the ability to kayak, but it was also considered a serious injury risk. It took several hours, but crews finally got the boulder out Saturday. Kayaking officials say they're disappointed the removal took so long, but are glad it's finally gone.

"With the rock in the water, none of this is possible. None of the marketing for the City of Watertown, no clinics, or schools or education on wave. No tourism and no recreation,” said Tom O'Riley, Black River Development.

So far this year, no kayakers have used that part of the river because of the rock, but the Junior Can-Am competition and the Ottawa Kayak School and Clinic are expected to take place as scheduled.

While the rock was being removed, there was a group of about 40 volunteers doing some removing of their own. Saturday was the annual Black River Clean Up.

The volunteers picked up dozens and dozens bags of trash as well as cleaning out old dead brush. They also planted trees and flowers, sprucing up some much needed areas.

"On a hot sunny morning, this gentleman over here planting stuff, people are just doing a great job for us. It's all about civic pride and Watertown and the whole area should be proud of what's going on,” said Norman Wayde, Clean Up Organizer.

Next year the group plans to clean up more around the hole brothers spot near Newell Street.