The 29th annual Elk River raft race saw more than 160 paddlers in creative costumes vying for the top prize and raising $3,750 for the Elk River Alliance (ERA).
The paddlers raced from the Dicken Road put-in to the Dogwood Park boat launch to raise money towards ERA’s Elk River Discovery Camp.
Elk River Discovery Camp brings youth outside to learn and play in the watershed each summer.
Guides from Canyon Raft Company and Tunnel 49 were present to ensure all participants were safe and had appropriate gear.
After a gentle warm-up float, rafts lined up for a race from upstream of the Leo T. Nimsick Bridge to the West Fernie Bridge.
“The community has come out to do one of the most fun things you can do on the river, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come,” says Lynn Muller, co-founder, Canyon Raft.
Freestone Construction took out the first-place prize, with Summit Works claiming the royal sportsman.
The Elk River Alliance won best costume as the Western Painted Ninja Turtles alongside Barkside as “The Barkanears”.
Sarah Osberg and her children won the best family title, with Earth’s Owns Naturals receiving the Friend of the River Award.
“We always love to see the community out on the river, and the raft race is such a fun way to do it,” says Chad Hughes, Executive Director, ERA.
“We are so grateful to celebrate this river alongside businesses and the Elk Valley community, while raising important funds for ERA.”
Elk River Raft Race. (Photo Credit: Elk River Alliance)
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