Submitted
For the 29th year, the annual raft race made a splash in the Elk River.
Over 134 participants donned creative costumes, and splashed down the river in a friendly competition. Every year, event proceeds are donated to the Elk River Alliance (ERA) for their Elk River Discovery Camps. This year’s event raised $2,680!
On Wednesday, June 18, people gathered at the Dogwood Park boat launch and were transported to the Dicken Road put-in. Guides from Canyon Raft Co. and Tunnel 49 ensured all participants were safe and had appropriate gear. After a gentle warm-up float, rafts line up for a race from upstream of the Leo T. Nimsick Bridge to the West Fernie Bridge.
"This raft race is a great way to engage the community in one of the most fun things you can do on the river," said Canyon Raft co-founder Lynn Muller. "My sister-in-law and brother were visiting. They absolutely loved the raft race and thought it was the coolest event they’ve ever been in. Plus the money raised goes to support a great cause."
Prizes are awarded at the end of the race for first place, best costumes, sportsmanship, and best family raft. For the second year running, the team from Summit Works took first place. ERA’s team was grateful to win one of the two best costume prizes for their Beach Babies outfit.
“This is consistently the most fun way for us to fundraise,” said Elk River Alliance communications manager Evgeni Matveev. “It’s a great team building exercise, and we always have a blast. We’re super grateful that this is organised for our summer camps.”
The funds support ERA’s Elk River Discovery Camp, which brings youth outside to learn and play in the watershed each summer. Youth age 7 to 14 raft, fish, swim, hike, and learn from Ktunaxa knowledge holders. Matveev said spaces for the camp are still available.
This annual event would not be possible without Lynn and Blair’s organizing and Canyon Raft and Tunnel 49 for supplying equipment and guides.
The event organizers would like to thank those who came out to participate, as well as businesses who submitted prize donations.
