This weekend marks the 4th annual Blackfoot River Challenge, a fun weekend of river events and all proceeds go the the Missoula Food Bank. There’s a little something for every one, it all starts off on Friday at 6:00 pm with a slalom clinic at Roundup. This is a great way to learn the ropes of the slalom course, this is a challenging whitewater run.
Saturday at 11:00 am the downriver race begins at Johnsrud Park, there will be a pre-race meeting at 10:30 am to go over the course and rules. Registration is open up to the 10:30 am meeting. This leg of the race goes Johnsrud downstream 10-11 miles to the weigh station take-out. This is a mostly flat stretch with some 1+ rapids. This race is one for all abilities, and is friendly to all watercraft. Saturday at 4:00 pm there will be a sprint race at Roundup.
Sunday 10:00 am at Roundup will be the slalom. This usually goes for a good portion of the day. Slalom is where you maneuver your boat through gates both up and down stream while paddling through Roundup rapid. There are different classes depending on the type of boat you choose to paddle. For instance, creek boat kayak, playboat kayak, solo canoe, tandem canoe etc…. you can enter multiple classes.
Cost for 1 event will be $20, 2 or more events will be $25. The slalom clinic will be $5 w/ food donation or $10 w/out a food. Camping may be free, but I will be very much encouraging donations for that as well. Remember this is a benefit for the Missoula Food Bank so bring some food to donate. Also the proceeds from your entry fees will be donated as well. Entry fee also includes event swag, and loads of fun.
Questions? Email Brandon at blackfootriverchallenge@gmail.com