Canoe And Kayak Racers Converge On Missouri. Why? Its A Really Big Race

Have any of you ever been in a canoe? Or gone kayaking?  I have ridden in a canoe, and it was a lot of fun, as long as you are prepared to get wet.  It looks like good exercise, and I don't know how long I could go before I ran out of strength.  But today, I tip my cap to those who took on an amazing challenge.

The world's longest non-stop canoe and kayak race began today July 12th.  The Missouri American Water Missouri River 340 began today, stretching from Kansas City to St. Charles.  This is the 17th annual event, and about 650 paddlers that will attempt to travel 340 miles beginning at Kaw Point Park in Kansas City and finish in St Charles.  Talk about an endurance race.  The race needs to be completed in 85 hours.

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To put in perspective, if you drove from St Louis to Kansas City, you are looking at a drive of about 248 miles.  So now add about 100 more miles to that.  My goodness.  I cannot imaging having the endurance to complete that feat in 2 weeks, much less in 85 hours.  The proceeds generated by the race will be going to some good causes.  They benefit two environmental stewardship and education organizations: Missouri River Relief and the Lewis & Clark Boat House & Museum.  You can read a bit more about this event HERE.

If you want to see how the participants are doing, additional information can be found on the MR340 website. Click here for the 2022 race results, or here for previous record times. And good luck to all.  My hats off to you. I couldn't do it.