Join us for the 22nd Annual Jack Barker Memorial Race & Fun Float along the Buckhannon River. All proceeds from the event benefit the Buckhannon River Watershed Association's clean water efforts.
Date: Sunday, 19 May 2024
Registration: 10:00 AM @ the Riverwalk Boat Ramp/Wood St. Park
Race Start: Safety briefing starts at 11:45 AM with the race starting at 12:00 (Noon). SPRINT race starts after the others race concludes around 2:00 PM
Course Description: Starting and ending at the Riverwalk Boat Ramp/Wood St. Park, paddlers will travel upstream on the Buckhannon River for 1.9 miles, first passing the Poe St. bridge and then turning around at the Tennerton Bridge. Paddlers will return the same way, paddling downstream to the boat ramp. The total race distance in 3.8 miles.
SPRINT Race: The SPRINT race goes upstream to Poe Bridge, then returns for a total distance of 1.4 miles. The race is geared towards youth/families, but is open to anyone who wants to participate.
Entry Fee: $10.00 (per paddler) due in person during registration/check-in. Cash/check accepted. Kids paddle free!
Awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in each class (except the non-competitive/fun float)
Requirements: All paddlers must have a life jacket and whistle per WVDNR boating regulations. Anyone 16 years or younger MUST WEAR A LIFE JACKET
All participants will receive an event sticker and other door prizes.
Event Organizer: The Buckhannon River Watershed Association (BRWA) is organizing the 2024 event. For over two decades, BRWA has been dedicated to preserving, conserving, and monitoring the health of the Buckhannon River watershed and promoting our West Virginia heritage through public awareness. To learn more, visit our website:
https://buckhannonriver.org/
Event Sponsors: Trubie Run Outfitters, Mountain Lakes Preservation Alliance, Sam's Pizza, Buck's Diner, Armory Pharmaceuticals
Event History: This local race has a long history. The first canoe race was held as part of the Strawberry Festival in 1977. The race was then renamed to honor the legacy of Jack Barker in 2002. Jack Barker was an avid paddler of the Buckhannon and on any given day from March to October would be on the river. Jack was also passionate about canoe racing, competing in various events and often placing in the top 10 in the national arena. In 1989, he placed first in the United States Canoe Association C-2 Aluminum division with his partner Rick Hart.
Questions? Contact:
buckhannonriverwatershed@gmail.com or call (681) 910-2989
