We’re stoked to announce, the West Virginia Waterman Challenge!…as part of the 4th Annual Putnam County PaddleFest, & now an officially sanctioned race in The Waterman Series!

*On the mighty Kanawha River in #AlmostHeaven, West Virginia*

 This event will offer more FUN activities and distances for ALL ages & abilities…from beginner to pro!!!

>>>>>>>

Launching from the beautiful new boat ramp adjacent to the Winfield Community Center…racers will paddle upstream 3.5 miles, turn around a buoy, and paddle back down-stream to finish at the bridge. (Total 7 miles, Approx. 1-2 hours depending on watercraft, river conditions, and experience level)

A beginner-friendly ‘Community Float’ will begin as soon as the racers take off. We encourage the floaters to challenge themselves to paddle 1.5 miles upstream to turn around at Winfield High School, before returning back to the boat ramp (Total: 3 miles, Approx. 1 - 2/12 hours depending on experience)

With our launch-point being just about 1 mile upstream from the Winfield Locks and Dam, there is typically little to no current throughout the Race and Float course...simulating more of a "flat-water lake setting". (pending recent rainfall)

*ALL Participants will be REQUIRED to wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and remain on the Right Side of the River (on the way upstream) and return safely on that same side of the river when paddling back down-stream. (River-Left)

 **Floaters are requested to hug closer to the river bank to make way for racers paddling closer to the center-channel of the river on their return downstream.

***All proceeds from Race & Float registrations will benefit the Putnam Wellness Coalition … to support them in their mission of “engaging communities within Putnam County in ongoing efforts to eliminate substance abuse by creating and maintaining a safe and healthy environment that inform, advocate, and support youth and adults.” (with support from the Putnam County Paddle Cooperative & local sponsors)

Events include:

- Community Float (3 mile loop to Winfield High School & back)

- 7 Mile Dash (Open to all paddle-craft: Kayak, SUP, Canoe, Prone)

- 15 Mile Bridge to Bridge >>> ***SEPTEMBER 26th*** <<< (scheduled 2 weeks later to allow for social-distancing *COVID*)

- FREE Youth & Beginner Race (200 Meter loop course)

- Mega SUP Team Time-Trials (Fits up to 10 Paddlers) a.k.a. #Quaranteam

 - Flatwater Freestyle Competition (Geared toward SUP's : Dock Jump & Trick Contest) *Helmets Required* (Limited # of Helmets will be provided)