2025 Race the Red Canoe & Kayak Races

*6/19 Update: We want all skill levels to enjoy Race the Red, so we are postponing Race the Red in hopes that the river will slow down by July 21.

Join us for Race the Red! This event is open to all skill levels.

Three Flag Races:

• Choose your distance from 1.5, 3.5 or 6 miles.
• Participants paddle up river to a designated turnaround point, grab a prize, and return down river to the finish.

The Course:

• All races begin and end at the south boat ramp at Dike East (100 2nd Street South in Fargo). The first half of each race is upstream.

Rent a Canoe or Kayak:

• $15 rental includes paddles and life jackets. Limited number available.

Unloading and Parking (Carpooling is Encouraged!):

• Drop off your vessel between noon-4 pm to help with traffic congestion and receive a small prize. River Keepers staff will be on site to ensure security.
• Allow plenty of time when unloading right before the race. Drop off vessel near the Midtown Dam South Boat Ramp, then park.

Entry Fee:

• Early Bird Fee is $20/person
• Entry fee is $25/person after July 10 at 4 pm.

• River Keepers members receive code for a 15% discount to be used by July 17 at 4 pm Aren’t a River Keepers member? Add one on while checking out through Eventbrite or go to riverkeepers.org/member.

Inclement Weather Policy: In the case of inclement weather the day of the race, the race will be postponed if the forecast predicts lightning, high winds, flooding, or the current is too fast. The race will go on as planned if rain is predicted (dress accordingly). A decision will be made by noon the day of the race. Mark your calendar for the back up weather date just in case and check your email or River Keepers Facebook Race the Red event page for the latest news.

Categories

Canoe: Solo, Male Team, Female Team, Co-ed Team

Solo Kayak: Male, Female

Tandem Kayak: Male Team, Female Team, Co-ed Team

Non-traditional: Rowboat, hydrobike, SUP, hobie, and any other watercraft that is not a canoe or kayak using a paddle in a traditional way. Example: a solo canoe with a kayak paddle is nontraditional. Solo, Team

Awards: 1st place awards in each category.

Rules to Remember:

• Fun is the primary intention of this event!
• Life jackets must be worn AND fastened at all times.
• All vessels must be manually propelled.
• No tipping, bumping or splashing others.
• Alcohol is not permitted.

AIS/ANS Precautions: The Red River is host to zebra mussels. To prevent the spread of AIS/ANS (Aquatic Invasive/Nuisance Species) to other waterbodies, racers should make sure to drain water from the inside of their vessels and remove any plants or debris from equipment. Additional recommendations:

Spray with high-pressure water

Rinse with very hot water (120°F for at least 2 minutes; or 140°F for at least 10 seconds)

Dry for at least 5 days

More Fun for Family, Friends and Participants:

Bike/run/walk along the entire course on the Fargo Park District’s trail system to watch paddlers.

At the start/finish there is a photo booth, buoy toss and more.

Participants are encouraged to decorate their watercraft. All decorations must be securely fastened and collected immediately if they fall off.

Check Facebook or Eventbrite for more details.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Start/Finish Line Sponsor - $1000

· Logo on the Race the Red brochure and River Keepers website with a link to company website.

· Company mentioned in news releases, social media and River Keepers E-news.

· Company banner at start/finish line.

· Provide company swag to all participants and attendees.

· Have employees volunteer at start/finish.

· Provide an activity, demonstration or display at the start/finish.

1.5 Mile Turn Around Sponsor - $750

All racers either turn around here or go by this location.

· Company mentioned in Race the Red social media.

· Company banner at the 1.5 turn around or River Keepers will provide an 11x17 sign.

· Have employees volunteer at the 1.5 turn around

· Provide an activity, demonstration or display at the start/ finish.

3.5 Mile Turn Around Sponsor - $500

This is the most popular turn around, about ½ of our participants turn around here.

· Company banner at the 3.5 mile turn around or River Keepers will provide an 11x17 sign.

· Have employees volunteer at the 3.5 mile turn around.

· Provide an activity, demonstration or display at the start/ finish.

6 Mile Turn Around Sponsor - $250

This turn around see the most serious competitors.

· Company banner at the 6 mile turn around or River Keepers will provide an 11x17 sign.

· Have employees volunteer at the 6 mile turn around.

· Provide an activity, demonstration or display at the start/ finish.

Door Prize Sponsor

Participants are eligible to win various door prizes.

· Company mentioned in Race the Red social media and on River Keepers website.

Also check out other Sports events in Fargo, Workshops in Fargo, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Fargo.