There's a paddling event happening this June on the Mississippi River. They're called Two Paddles Canoe & Kayak Races. Actually, there are multiple events, all happening at the same time- depending on how far you want to paddle. Anywhere from 7.5 miles up to 150 miles. The longest distance one (MR 150) will launch from Brainerd, MN. All the events end at the Coon Rapids Dam on the north side of the Twin Cities.

You could make it a fun family paddle, a personal challenge, or a race. It's all up to the individual or team to decide. Lots of good information is on their website at the link below.

They're planning a gathering at the finish complete with live music and stuff. It's a good time (I know because I did it last year). If enough BWCA'ers show up, it could be like a Wing Night.


Two Paddles

this Mississippi River paddle event is in May.

Mississippi Speed Record

Shoot, it appears the first registration deadline has passed. Next deadline to register is May 15... I'll have an opportunity to get out and paddle a few times to see if my aging body is up for it before registering.

bobbernumber3: "this Mississippi River paddle event is in May.


Mississippi Speed Record "

Yup.

And Scott Miller is the driving force behind both Mississippi River paddling events.

OCDave: "Shoot, it appears the first registration deadline has passed. Next deadline to register is May 15... I'll have an opportunity to get out and paddle a few times to see if my aging body is up for it before registering. "

Note, there are also 48, 25, 10, and 7.5 mile long routes too.

Oh, and there is the 5-mile family challenge paddle event and the high school challenge paddle event.

I'm signed up for the 150. Looking forward to it! Almost did it last year, but life got in the way.

The event happened as planned last weekend and was another great experience. Lots of hard work mixed with fun times! Here's some pics of BWCA.com members who participated (at least members that I know). All of us did the 150-mile length route and all finished.

Two Paddles Canoe & Kayak Races announced that next year's events will be the first week of June...just in case you're thinking of doing it or putting a team together for next year.

Conchistador

Voyager

StraightHairedCurly

Kendra and me.

and....I don't know if these guys are members here or read this site but they are both Ely locals and are great paddlers. They finished 4th overall and 1st in their class (tandem men) even though the race had many faster surfskis and kayaks.

Jake Hway and Blake Ferree

Thanks for the pics, BeaV!