One of Vail’s most exciting events is coming up again this summer. Hosted by Alpine Quest Sports and the Vail Recreation District, the Vail Whitewater Race Series will be taking place on Tuesdays between May 9th through June 6th in the Vail Village on Gore Creek. Three divisions will take part including Kayaks under 9’6″, R2 Rafts (2 person rafts), and Stand Up Paddleboards.
Including head to head downriver races this is an event to be sure to check out at least once this summer. After every race there is an after party as well where awards will be rewarded to the top performers as well as one free beer for the competitors from New Belgium Brewing Company for those over 21. There are plenty of members that help bring this series to life including Starboard, Stohlquist, Jackson Kayaks, and others! Cash and gear prizes are awarded after the races!
Each week the course challenge will be determined the day prior based on where the river flows running. Each week will consist of a two round format. The first round will be a time trial. The results of the time trial will determine the seeding for the second round which will be a head to head race between participants. Lakota guides will also be on site at each of the events to supply rafts for teams to use for the R2 races.
The series is open to intermediate and advanced paddlers who are at least 16 years old and up and able to run Class III whitewater in craft of their choice. This year there will also include a brand new team competition! Teams will have at least four athletes and points will be awarded based on the team members individual points earned. The team with the most points at the end of the series will be crowned the Vail Whitewater Team Champions and will receive the “Golden Paddle” award at the final race.
Now that you know a little more about the Vail Whitewater Race Series be sure to get out there to watch some of these awesome paddlers or enter yourself if qualified. Next time you’re looking to get out on the water yourself be sure to give us a call at Breckenridge Whitewater!
