Deep in the heart of Sonoma, the Russian River winds its way through breath-taking scenery from Lake Mendocino to the Pacific Ocean. This spring, the heat is being turned-up with the launch of the Great Russian River Race.

The Russian River has a rich history in hosting river events, dating back to 1908. In this tradition, Russian Riverkeeper, River’s Edge and Sonoma County Regional Parks Department will host the inaugural Great Russian River Race.

What’s Happening

On May 7th, the Great Russian River Race will attract some of the world’s top canoeing and kayaking athletes, local adventurers, social paddlers and corporate teams to race in two separate events.

Advanced and expert paddlers will compete in a class II, 15-mile Bridge-to-Bridge Race from the Alexander Valley Bridge. Intermediate and corporate team paddlers will do battle over the 5-mile Rio Lindo Race, starting north of Healdsburg.

The respective races will finish at the Healdsburg Memorial Bridge, welcomed by the River Race Party. Over $5,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to the winners at the Race Cup Ceremony.

Who Should Enter

The emphasis of the Great Russian River Race is on adventure, competition and fun. Competitors and spectators will have the opportunity to participate in a world class sporting event, while enjoying the surroundings of one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world.

Athletes may use their own kayaks, canoes and surfskis or rent from River’s Edge Kayak and Canoe, the professional outfitter that will manage the river operations, safety and logistics.