Commerce Cabinet
National Canoe and Kayak Wildwater Event Set For Russell Fork Oct. 14-16

ELKHORN CITY, Ky. – The challenging waters of the Russell Fork River in Pike County will be the site of the USA Canoe and Kayak National Wildwater Team Trials Oct. 14-16.

This event highlights some of the unique adventure tourism opportunities in Eastern Kentucky. The competition determines the American team for the 2012 World Championship to be held in La Plagne, France.

The Kentucky Sports Authority is a sponsor of this event, which features canoe and kayak time trials. The Elkhorn City Heritage Council is also a sponsor. 

“We’re excited to bring a national level event to Kentucky,” said Jack Ditty, the race director and a member of the U.S. national wildwater team from Morgantown, W.Va. “This competition will increase the visibility of the sport in this area.”

The Russell Fork is a popular year-round venue for those who canoe, kayak and raft. During weekends in October, the Army Corps of Engineers increases the water flow, making for much more challenging and interesting rapids.

Practice sessions are scheduled for Friday, Oct. 14, with the competitions scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. The time trials include a sprint – a 500 meter race, and the classic, a 2-mile race. For those interested in watching, the best location and time will be at Elkhorn City Beach on Saturday afternoon for the finish of the classic race.

For more information, visit USAwildwater.com

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