Peavine Whitewater Race

Just about anyone who has been on whitewater before can participate in this race. It’s suitable for students in college paddling clubs, strong downriver canoe racers, youth with summer camp whitewater experience, older folks in the ‘master’s class’, die-hard class 5 boaters looking for some fast fun, and youngsters racing with seasoned adult teammates. This race is designed to be a place where all boaters can get together. Please register in advance to keep things smooth on race day.

The takeout is huge, leave as many cars down there as possible. Consolidate boats and boaters and bring the fewest cars possible to the put-in. We try to have some volunteers run shuttle rigs but if you are traveling alone it’s best to get to the takeout on the early side and figure out a ride with other racers. Pick up your bib and sign waivers at Peavine Park. Suit up and warm up on the way down to the bridge where the start happens at high noon.

The first three miles of the race, from the start to Blackmer Boulevard bridge, is a little easier than the last two miles from Blackmer down to Gaysville Bridge. Blackmer Boulevard is the place to pull the plug if you feel like you are in over your head. The last mile especially features the trickiest and most continuous rapids. Sprint to the finish under the Gaysville Bridge and then take a breather one the big gravel bar there.

Find a friend or make a new one as you continue down a few miles from the finish line to the takeout parking area. Get changed and have some food, run shuttle if necessary. We’ll get the results sorted out and distribute prizes as soon as we can.

Enjoy the river. Be an athlete. Go hard. Help anyone who needs it. Relax at the finish. BYOB. Keep it cool.

Proceeds of this race benefit Ridgeline Outdoor Collective, the White River Valley’s local outdoor recreation club (formerly R.A.S.T.A.).