Rivanna River Regatta Charlottesville - Race Information

Rivanna River Race 2025

2025-03-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

We are back!

After a 5-year hiatus from being involved in the organization of this race, we are jumping back in to bring it back to life after it was unceremoniously cancelled just prior to the race in 2024, and we were told by the last organizers they had no desire to continue organizing this event in the future.

Overcoming some hesitations, ultimately, we decided we could not let a 17-year-old local paddling tradition just die like that, so here we are again, trying to keep a great paddling tradition alive.

We got our old domain back (which was the next progression beyond this original blog) and full race details are there:
https://www.CvillePaddlers.com

Tonight we also just went 10 rounds with Google to figure out how to regain access to this old blogspot account, (it seems like 20 years since we even heard the name "Blogspot," LOL!) but since it still ranks pretty high for Rivanna River Race, we felt it was important to make this post to help get the word out.

Fun times when you don't remember your user name or your password for some ancient blogging platform. But heck, it obviously is still in service and works.

This will probably be the last post, though, because CvillePaddlers.com will now serve as the main race site, but it is kinda cool to log into a site that was dormant and almost a forgotten memory and make a fresh post all these years later. It makes us want to use our Blackberry to order a movie on VHS tape.

Registration is now open for the 2025 Rivanna River Race on May 3, 2025 and registrations will be handled through the trusted site, PaddleGuru.com

This year's race benefits https://www.HopeCville.com, who provide hope to those who find themselves affected by the judicial and social service systems. By using the best means available in our communities and providing a vision of hope, they help individuals in the midst of despair and uncertainty know that they are not alone.

Here is how they serve our community in their own words:

Duffels, Backpacks, and Luggage

We provide duffels and luggage to the local Social Services organization so they can disperse these resources to children placed in protective custody. For recently released inmates, we provide backpacks filled with personal hygiene items and weather-appropriate clothing as needed. We take donations from local businesses and individuals to help us purchase these items. Help us connect with donors and with people in need.

We also provide Duffels to The Bridge Ministry, a Program and Training Facility helping men overcome addictive lifestyles by teaching them marketable skills to enable them to become productive and responsible citizens.

So come on out and enjoy a great day of friendly paddling competition on the Rivanna River. It is for a great cause.

Rivanna River Race

2021-02-17T20:22:00.003-08:00

This race is now coordinated and managed by the Rivanna Conservation Alliance. Visit their site for all information and updates.

This blog will remain publicly available for reference and historical purposes.

Rivanna River Race Information

2018-04-20T18:48:00.002-07:00

All information about the May 12, 2018 Rivanna Canoe & Kayak Race has moved over to CvillePaddlers.com this year.

Here is a link directly to the information page where you may register online and also print out the ACA Waiver and bring it with you on race day. http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/2018race.html

The information on this blog will stay up for historical purposes.

Rivanna River Race, Saturday, May 12, 2018

2018-03-19T19:06:00.002-07:00

Full details and online pre-registration now available at www.cvillepaddlers.com.

http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/2018race.html

Please help us by downloading and circulating this year's race flyer.

13th Annual Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Race, May 12, 2018

2018-03-05T13:27:00.001-08:00

Save the date! More details will be coming.

This will be an ACA sanctioned event and we highly encourage you to join ACA.

Our Race Coordinator is retiring this year so we are looking for volunteers to help with this year's event and we are also seeking sponsors willing to make donations to help offset expenses and/or donate prizes, door prizes, etc. We are very flexible and liberal with the exposure we can give you on all our race materials.

If interested, please contact race [at} cvillepaddlers {dot} com

Seeking volunteers for reservoir/river cleanup on June 3

2017-05-22T20:31:00.001-07:00

"My name is Kristin Bartschi and I'm a volunteer with The Nature Conservancy. TNC is partnering with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to hold a Clean the Bay Day in the Charlottesville area on Saturday, June 3rd. I'm reaching out to you to see if CVille Paddlers would be interested in volunteering for this event. (The Reservoir cleanup site is kayak/canoe friendly!) An event description and link to register is below.

Clean the Bay Day, Saturday, June 3: Chesapeake Bay Foundation

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and its partners throughout the Commonwealth invite you to help save the Bay by picking up shoreline, waterway, and watershed litter during the 29^th Annual Clean the Bay Day on June 3, 2017. Join thousands of fellow Virginians in removing unhealthy debris from cherished waterways throughout the Commonwealth. By boat or on foot, gather your family, friends, neighbours, groups, and co-workers for a fun day and a worthwhile way to help Save the Bay.

Find a location and register to help here.

Nature Conservancy sponsored locations:

o Charlottesville and Rivanna River Watershed

§ Meadow Creek - 10 volunteers needed

§ Riverview Park to Free Bridge - 10 volunteers needed

§ Pollocks Branch at Elliot Ave - 25 volunteers needed

§ Reservoir (kayak/canoes welcome) - 5 volunteers needed

Any help you can give to spread the word about this volunteer event is appreciated!

All the best,

Kristin"

Send an email to volunteer {at] cvillepaddlers-dot-com if you would like to help and if there are enough people I'll sign us up.

Race 2017 Results & Recap

2017-05-18T22:24:00.000-07:00

A HUGE thank you to all who came out to support the 2017 race last Saturday, May 13.

The official results have been finalized and published on the website at: http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/races/index.htm
or simply review them below.

Race video:

If you have photos or videos you'd like to share, please contact us.

Rivanna River Race update

2017-05-11T14:10:00.000-07:00

Update: 7:48pm Friday...The race section was paddled after work and it is clear of obstacles! Flow and level is normal for this time of year and there are still a few rocks that can be bumped. Just a couple things to note that will be covered at the safety briefing at the starting line. River is at a good level, the water is clear, and we'll have a great morning on the river tomorrow! Come on out!!

As of now the race is still a "go" for Saturday. The river level is near perfect!

The Race Coordinator is monitoring the weather closely and will make an announcement here if anything changes.

Rain is in the forecast but unless there is lightning at race time or the river rises to remarkably high levels, we will run this race in the rain.

Please note, Rivanna River Company is providing a free shuttle BEFORE the race from Darden Towe Park back to the starting line, so get there early enough to drop your boat and gear at the starting line and take your car to Darden Towe Park and catch a shuttle back.

Alternatively, we always have volunteers who will drive you back to the starting line to get your car after the race.

Friday 5/17 update, 9:20am. ~~Still a "go"~~
Word from the Race Coordinator:
"We'll go rain or shine with two, 'No Go' reasons:

1. If there are thunder storms close by with lightning

2 If the river is above 2-3 ft above normal spring flow. Right now, it looks OK."

River level, 9:20am Friday, May 12, Palmyra. 712cfs-A great level!

The race route

The 12th Annual River River Races, May 13, 2017

2017-03-16T07:08:00.001-07:00

Merrill Bishop and Charlottesville Area Paddlers present the 12th Annual Rivanna River Regatta Canoe and Kayak Races, Saturday, May 13 on the Rivanna River in Charlottesville, VA.

The 6.2-mile downriver race will continue in its tradition of determining and recognizing the area's fastest paddlers.

Racers should assemble under the Rt. 29 bridge at Rio Mills Rd.(just north of Sam's Club & Brown Automotive) beginning at 8:30am and be prepared to start the first heat at 10am. There will be a mandatory safety meeting at 9:15am. The finish line will be the Darden Towe Park boat ramp and the fastest racers could cross the finish line by 10:45-10:55am, depending upon the water level on race day.

Medals awarded to top paddlers in several canoe and kayak categories.

$20 per paddler, max $40 per craft to cover insurance & logistics.* All kayakers and canoers welcome. Race course includes Class II—II+ rapids. Paddle at your own risk. (Signed waiver forms required.) It is highly recommended you paddle this section of river prior to race day to familiarize yourself with it.

Bring your canoe or kayak and join in the fun or just come out for a picnic and enjoy meeting local paddlers and watching the races.

For more information contact:

Merrill Bishop, Race Coordinator
Tel: 434-975-3072
Email: rambishop1 (at} gmail.com

or

Dave Dolak, Communications Coordinator
Tel: 434-975-6584
Email: dave {at] cvillepaddlers.com

== Additional resources: ==

Q&A Article/Interview "Racing Down The Rivanna" with one-time reprint rights available:
http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/races/article2014.htm

Results and photos from prior years:
http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/races/index.htm

Sponsors:

Rivanna River Co. can supply rental boats at the race put-in. These will need to be pre-arranged by emailing or calling us with the desired craft type and number. Options are solo kayak, tandem kayak, and canoe. We will discount our usual rental rates to $25 for a solo kayak and $33 for a tandem kayak or canoe. Email RivannaRiverCompany@gmail.com or call (434) 218-2052.

We will also provide complimentary shuttle rides for all racers who want to park at Darden Towe before the race so come early and drop your boat at the starting line and then head to Darden Towe.

* Fee information updated 3/23/17

Save The Date: The Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Race

2017-01-18T14:23:00.003-08:00

Will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2017.

See you there!

2016 Race Results are Posted

2016-05-24T14:02:00.002-07:00

Thank you to all who paddled and/or volunteered to make this year's race a success! We had a record number of paddlers this year and, as always, we ask for your feedback on how this race can be improved.

The results are now posted at www.CvillePaddlers.com/races

We especially thank members of the George Dickel Chapter of the Float Fishermen of Virginia who volunteered both on land and in the water as safety boaters. They did a great job ensuring we all remained safe and helped keep things running smoothly.

Sweep clearing and beginners' floatilla before race Saturday

2016-04-22T19:47:00.001-07:00

On May 4, Wednesday at 10 am we'll be sending a debris and sweep clearing crew down this stretch of the river. If you can help, please come. We'll likely need a chainsaw (or two) to shorten some of the sweeps and we'll pick-up trash along the way. Gabe Silver will be there with his trailer load of canoes and kayaks so if you want to use one, then, e-mail RivannaRiverCompany@gmail.com and make your needs known. Bring a few large trash bags, leather gloves, perhaps a shovel, and I'll throw in a coil of rope.

On May 7, Saturday at 9 am, we'll have an orientation flotilla headed down this 6.2 mile course departing from the 29 North Put-In right there at the stoplight at 29 North and Rio Mills Rd. We'll have a number of "newbys" exploring this stretch of the river for the first time. I've also invited some of the "press" to "paddle" along and possibly get some "action" shots in the two, Class II rapids. Please respond so we'll be able to arrange photo Ops for them. If you need a canoe, again, contact Gabe.

Merrill Bishop, Race Coordinator

ph. 434-975-3072

on-the-go cell 996-8886

Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Races Saturday May 14, 2016

2016-03-18T09:07:00.003-07:00

Print and share the event flyer to help promote this event.

The 11th annual Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Races will be held Saturday, May 14, 2016. Racers to assemble starting ~8:00am for registration. First race starts promptly at 10am. Mandatory safety meeting at 9am.

Racers may be started together at 10am sharp or there may be several heats. Race Coordinator reserves the right to combine or eliminate categories depending upon the number of paddlers in each category on race day.

Where? Paddlers assemble at registration/start line under the Route 29 bridge north of Charlottesville (just north of the DoubleTree Hotel/Sam’s Club on the upstream side of the bridge off Rio Mills Road.)

Race finish line is 6.2 miles later at the boat ramp in Darden Towe Park on the east side of Charlottesville. First place paddlers may finish by approx. 10:45am. Awards ceremony will be held at Darden Towe boat ramp shortly after the last racer completes the race (estimated 12:30-1pm.)

$20 entrance fee per adult, $10 age 13-18, $5 kids under 13. All kayakers and canoers welcome. Race course includes Class II—II+ rapids. Paddle at your own risk. (Signed waiver forms required.) Public spectators welcomed and encouraged at the finish line at Darden Towe Park.

Boat rentals ($10) and free shuttle provided by Rivanna River Company. Please contact them directly before the end of business, Thursday, May 12 to make arrangements. www.RivannaRiverCompany.com
(434) 218-2052
RivannaRiverCompany@gmail.com

Contact for more information: Merrill Bishop, Race Coordinator Tel: 434-975-3072; Email: rambishop1@gmail.com

Visit www.CvillePaddlers.com For more information, links, and photos & videos from previous races

Categories will be consistent with previous years, pending the number and types of crafts that enter on race day.

Canoeists may only use single-blade paddles for competition.

Approved PFD's must be worn.

Sponsors:

Save the date! The 11th Annual Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Races

2016-03-12T17:36:00.002-08:00

As always the Rivanna River Race will be the second Saturday in May this year. Saturday, May, 14, 2016.

Thank you Joe Thomas and WCHV Radio!

2015-04-28T12:39:00.002-07:00

A huge thank you to Joe Thomas for hosting a couple of our paddlers this morning on WCHV AM1260 radio Charlottesville.

You may click this link to listen to the segment via Joe's online podcast.

This Saturday, May 2, Test run & race route clearing

2015-04-28T05:46:00.002-07:00

Preparation/Test Runs: On the afternoon of May 1 through just before dark on May 3, the gate to this 29 North Put-In will be open and paddlers are encourage to make this 6.2 mile run to get acquainted with the rapids. On Saturday May 2, a flotilla of veteran paddlers/workers will start down at 10:00 am with their primary “duty” to clear any fallen trees or other obstructions to river navigation. This is a great time of beginners to accompany these veterans down this stretch of the river. They may even want to pick up their craft, carry it back up stream and make additional runs through the different rapids.

The 10th Annual Rivanna River Regatta, Saturday, May 9, 2015

2015-03-20T09:01:00.003-07:00

When: May 9, 2015; 8:30-9:30am registration. First race heat starts promptly at 10am.

Where: Charlottesville, VA under the Route 29 bridge just north of the DoubleTree Hotel/Sam’s Club on the upstream side of the bridge off Rio Mills Road

What: A 6.2 mile downriver race for all paddler classes.

Cost: $15 per Craft

Save the date! Saturday, May 9, 2015 for the 10th annual Rivanna River downriver canoe & kayak race in Charlottesville, VA. The downriver race will follow the same schedule as previous years... 6.2-mile downriver race. Racers to assemble starting at 8:30am for registration. First race starts promptly at 10am.
Racers may be started together at 10am sharp or there may be several heats depending upon the number of participants. Race Coordinator reserves the right to combine or eliminate categories depending upon the number of paddlers in each category on race day.

First place paddlers may finish by approx. 10:45am. Awards ceremony will be held at Darden Towe boat ramp shortly after the last racer completes the race (estimated 12:30-1pm.)

Classes (subject to change):

Kayak >16' male
Kayak >16' female
Kayak </=16' male
Kayak </=16' female
Solo canoe male
Solo canoe female
Tandem canoe male
Tandem canoe female
Tandem canoe mixed
Tandem kayak male
Tandem kayak female
Tandem kayak mixed
Male SUP (stand up paddleboard)
Female SUP
Solo short/stubby/whitewater kayaks (male & female) that
do not appear to the Race Coordinator to be competitive
in the "recreational," less than 16' categories.

Canoeists may only use single-blade paddles.

PFD's MUST BE WORN DURING THE RACE BY ALL PADDLERS.

Major sponsors:

Albemarle County Parks & Recreation

American Canoe Association

The race route:

Race wristbands are here! Please bring an extra buck for a wristband to help offset costs for the race (medals, insurance, and other expenses.)

Save the date for Rivanna River Race 2015

2014-11-30T23:01:00.001-08:00

May 9, 2015.

2014 Race Results

2014-05-13T17:26:00.001-07:00

The 2014 Race Results are now available by clicking this link.

9th Annual Rivanna River Regatta May 10, 2014

2014-02-12T20:56:00.003-08:00

When: May 10, 2014; 8:30-9:30am registration

Where: Charlottesville, VA under the Route 29 bridge just north of the DoubleTree Hotel/Sam’s Club on the upstream side of the bridge off Rio Mills Road

What: A 6.2 mile downriver race for all paddler classes.

Cost: $10 per Craft

Save the date! Saturday May 10, 2014 for the 9th annual Rivanna River downriver canoe & kayak race in Charlottesville, VA. The downriver race will follow the same schedule as previous years... 6.2-mile downriver race. Racers to assemble starting at 8:30am for registration. First race starts promptly at 10am.
Racers may be started together at 10am sharp or there may be several heats depending upon the number of participants. Race Coordinator reserves the right to combine or eliminate categories depending upon the number of paddlers in each category on race day.

First place paddlers may finish by approx. 10:45am. Awards ceremony will be held at Darden Towe boat ramp shortly after the last racer completes the race (estimated 12:30-1pm.)

Classes (subject to change):

Kayak >16' male
Kayak >16' female
Kayak </=16' male
Kayak </=16' female
Solo canoe male
Solo canoe female
Tandem canoe male
Tandem canoe female
Tandem canoe mixed
Tandem kayak male
Tandem kayak female
Tandem kayak mixed
Male SUP (stand up paddleboard)
Female SUP
Solo short/stubby/whitewater kayaks (male & female) that
do not appear to the Race Coordinator to be competitive
in the "recreational," less than 16' categories.

Canoeists may only use single-blade paddles.

PFD's MUST BE WORN DURING THE RACE BY ALL PADDLERS.

Major sponsors:

Albemarle County Parks & Recreation

American Canoe Association

Blue Ridge Outdoors

Podcast interview with Merrill Bishop:

The race route:

The medals are being readied and race wristbands are here! Please bring an extra buck for a wristband to help offset costs for the race.

Save the date...

2013-11-23T00:42:00.001-08:00

The 2014 Rivanna Regatta Canoe & Kayak Races are tentatively set for May 10, 2014.

2013 Race Results & wrap-up

2013-05-16T11:16:00.003-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out last Saturday to make the 8th Rivanna River race a success! The water was up yet at a good level this year. The results have been posted at: http://www.cvillepaddlers.com/races

Once again, we thank Merrill Bishop for organizing such a great event! Thanks, Merrill!!

And finally, if you have any photos from the event, please share them by sending to dave [@} cvillepaddlers.com.

8th Annual Canoe & Kayak Races are May 11, 2013

2013-04-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

The annual races are coming on May 11, 2013...

8th Annual Rivanna River Regatta, May 11, 2013

2013-01-03T20:18:00.001-08:00

Save the date! Saturday May 11, 2013 for the 8th annual Rivanna River downriver canoe & kayak race in Charlottesville, VA. The downriver race will follow the same schedule as previous years...

6.2-mile downriver race:
Racers to assemble starting at 8:30am for registration. First race starts promptly at 10am.

Racers may be started together at 10am sharp or there may be several heats depending upon the number of participants. Race Coordinator reserves the right to combine or eliminate categories depending upon the number of paddlers in each category on race day.

Classes*:
Kayak >16' male
Kayak >16' female
Kayak </=16' male
Kayak </=16' female
Solo canoe male
Solo canoe female
Tandem canoe male
Tandem canoe female
Tandem canoe mixed
Tandem kayak male
Tandem kayak female
Tandem kayak mixed
Male SUP (stand up paddleboard)
Female SUP
Solo short/stubby/whitewater kayaks (male & female) that do not appear to the Race Coordinator to be competitive in the "recreational," less than 16' categories

* Race classes and assignments are determined by the race officials. Where there is inadequate participation in a class it may be combined with a class of similar character. There are many different styles and types of boats and it can be difficult to group "like" boats together to ensure that all boats in the same class are competitive with each other. There are many factors that include length, width, and hull shape, just to name a few. The race officials do their best to get boats into the class which is most appropriate and their decisions are final.

Where?
Paddlers assemble at registration/start line under the Route 29 bridge north of Charlottesville (just north of the DoubleTree Hotel/Sam’s Club on the upstream side of the bridge off Rio Mills Road.) Race finish line is 6.2 miles later at the boat ramp in Darden Towe Park on the east side of Charlottesville. First place paddlers may finish by approx. 10:45am. Awards ceremony will be held at Darden Towe boat ramp shortly after the last racer completes the race (estimated 12:30-1pm.)

$10 entrance fee (per craft, one winning medal for tandem crafts.) All kayakers and canoers welcome. Race course includes Class II—II+ rapids. Paddle at your own risk. (Signed waivers required.) Public spectators welcomed and encouraged at the finish line at Darden Towe Park.

Please keep an eye on this site for more information and updates!

THE RULES
1. All participants must wear Coast Guard approved life vests.
2. All participants are required to give aid to any boater in danger.
3. Paddlers are strongly encouraged to wear whitewater helmets for their protection.
4. Paddlers are encouraged to run the race course sometime before the actual race as there can be a few Class II - Class II+ rapids depending upon the water level.

Race Winners!

2012-05-14T06:35:00.005-07:00

2012 Rivanna River Regatta Canoe & Kayak Races Official Results are here

Winners of the downriver race are:

Solo Kayak Under 16' Men
1. Dave Segars 58:49
2. Rick Barnett 1:00:04
3. Ryan Quinnelly 1:06:41

Solo Kayak Under 16' Women
1. Lynn Lipp 1:23:37
2. Alexandria Searles 1:44:13

Solo Kayak Over 16' Men
1. Greg Hudson 59:07

Solo Canoe Men
1. Kirk Havens 1:04:09

Tandem Canoe Men
1. Cory Maine & Heath Riggleman 1:35:59

Tandem Kayak (mixed)
1. Dave & Josh Dolak 1:10:08

Winners of the 7-mile mini-marathon kayak flatwater challenge are:

1. Bob Decker 1:04:03
2. Dave Dolak 1:04:58
3. Greg Hudson 1:05:18

Congratulations to all!