Race the Mighty Ohio
Put your speed to the test at Ohio River Paddlefest Races, sponsored by Beacon Orthopaedics, Dr. Alberto Maldonado.
In celebration of our 25th anniversary, Paddlefest 2026 will include a 15.5-mile (25km) race distance! More details below.
Racer registration includes all Ohio River Paddlefest perks, like free shuttles and invitation to our Friday night outdoor expo. Paddlefest Races are a part of the Midwest Paddle League.
Racers register through PaddleGuru.
Race Sponsor
Race Details
A mandatory pre-race meeting will take place at 6:45 a.m. on Paddlefest morning. Racers who wish to shuttle from the take out at Gilday Riverside Park on Saturday morning must be on the first shuttle at 6:00 a.m.
Racers register through PaddleGuru, separately from recreational paddlers. No race day registration.
Choose your race
Seven Bridges Race 9.0 mi
This race runs the full length of our paddling course. Open to all craft.
Anniversary Race 15.5 mi (25km)
This race runs from start line to finish line, turns back upriver to a turn buoy and returns to the finish line. Open to all craft but recreational kayaks, inflatable SUPs, and 12’6’’ under SUPs.
Rates:
Jan-March 30 — $65
April 1-June 30 — $80
July 1-29 — $90
Onsite registration July 31 — $100
NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION
Choose Your Craft
Board
Stand up paddleboard Inflatable Seven Bridges Race only
Stand up paddleboard 12' 6" and under Seven Bridges Race only
Stand up paddleboard 14' and under
Stand up paddleboard Unlimited
Stand up paddleboard Tandem
Prone
Canoe
C1
C2*
OC1**
OC2* **
Kayak
High Performance Kayak (18'1''+)
Fast Sea Kayak (16'1'' - 18'')
Sea Kayak (14' -16')
Recreational Kayak (under 14') Seven Bridges Race only
K2*
*both paddlers must complete registration
**in the event that there are not 3 registrants in the OC1 or OC2 categories they will be combined with the C1 and C2 classes, respectively.