Kettle River Run

Everyone has fun, but only the the fastest boat down the river wins. The race is on Saturday May 3rd at 12 noon. Paddlers start the race at Banning State Park leaving on one minute intervals, fastest boat to Robinson Park wins.

On the first half of the two mile course the Kettle river drops through rapids like Mother's Delight, Dragon Tooth and Hell's Gate. Then it's a mile of flat water paddling, one more small rapid and the finish in Robinson Park.

The race is open to all paddlers of kayaks, canoes, rafts and dories. Minnesota state law requires life jackets on all paddlers, helmets and appropriate cold water clothing is recommended.

2008 prizes

 

1st place             $200  & a Kayak-pro "wing" paddle donated by Superior Surf Systems

2nd place                                                $100                            

3rd place                                                $50

Fastest Boat under 9 feet                      $75

Shortest Boat                                         $25

Longest swim (crowd decision)            $25

Most unique boat (crowd decision)      $25

Boat with the most people                    round of drinks at the Gas Light

Depending on water levels, the rapids on this stretch of the Kettle River can rate up to a class IV. Paddlers entering the race are required to have had previously run the river between Banning and Robinson Park. Because of the technical challenges only experienced paddlers will be allowed to enter the Kettle River Run.

Registration for the race will be from 8 A.M. to 11 A.M. on the day of the event. The sign-up booth will be located near the finish line in Robinson Park. Fees are $10 for ACA members and $20 for non ACA members, all registered racer will receive a Paddle Fest t-shirt and "bag of goodies".

Racers meet at 11 A.M. in Robinson Park for assignment of start times and race numbers. Race rules and safety information will also be covered.

Boats will be released one per minute from Banning State Park.

Awards ceremony 7:00 at the Gas Light Bar in downtown Sandstone.

see the video .....2007...race results   

The Kettle River Paddle Festival Safety Committee reserves the right to cancel the race due to unsafe water conditions.  The final river inspection will be conducted Friday May 2 at 3:00, any concerns about the water levels and river obstruction should be directed to the safety committee.

All prizes for the Kettle River Run are pledged donations from sponsors, the Kettle River Paddlers Club reserves the right to amend the prizes and the final prize categories.

 

Water sport activities imply many hazards which could result in serious injury or death. All participants in these activities must assume responsibility for themselves, their safety and their actions.