Happy New Year 2021!
MPR celebrates 10 years of racing this year!
MPR held our first race in 2012.
We now proudly host 5 races across Missouri & Kansas
Our 2021 Races
Mean Lamine - April 24
Our newest race, and one that lives up to it's name, this 13.4 mile race is a real mean up and back,
and that is because it's basically flat water - no current.
Average finish times are 3 - 3.5 hours.
Shootout - May 15
An unusual format race - it doesn't matter what kind of boat you have, only what kind of paddle.
This 50 mile race on the Missouri River from Kaw Point to Lexington is the first leg of the MR340,
with average finish times around 6 - 7 hours.
Freedom Race - June 26
Our signature event of the year, and the one that started it all in 2012. 63 miles from Boonville to Jeff City on the Missouri River.
Always scheduled about 3 weeks before the MR340
for a final tune-up before the big dance.
Average finish times are 7 - 8 hours.
Gritty - August 14
Originally named The Gritty Fitty, it changed from 50 miles to 35 in 2015. Sun, Sand, and Sorrow is all you need to know, and all you'll be thinking about as you paddle (and portage) on the Kansas River in this 5 - 6 hour race from Lawrence to Edwardsville.
Kawlloween - Oct 23
The "fun run" of paddling, and a great way to end the season. Only 11.4 miles on the Kansas River, and typically less than 2 hours from Eudora to DeSoto. Wear your costumes and bring the family!
What is Midwest Paddle Racing?
Racing
Canoe and Kayak racing has exploded in the last 15 years in the MoKan region thanks to the MR340, which began in 2006. Canoeing and kayak racing in the Midwest is different than spec boat racing in the northeast, or surfski racing in the oceans; it is kind of like the wild west.
While races in this area do have classes, the unlimited class thrives where the motto is, "Bring whatever boat you think can get you there the fastest." - and that isn't always a race boat. As someone once said, long distance races are a great equalizer.
In the Midwest you'll see aluminum canoes, proboats, surfskis, outriggers, and occasionally a barge made out of recycle blue barrels! It doesn't matter what you paddle as long as it floats and you have fun!
Recreation
Whether you are a serious competitor, a weekend warrior, or just a recreational paddler, Midwest Paddle Racing has a race and a class for everyone. Even though RACING is in the name, it is all about being healthy, enjoying nature, and having fun. If you have any questions, are looking to get into the sport, even just for recreation, give us a shout, and we will help you.
Community
Midwest Paddle Racing celebrates their 10th anniversary in 2021!! It wouldn't be possible if it wasn't for the great community of paddlers and families who come support the races every year!
We strive to make the events family oriented, and that is why anyone under 18 always races for free with an adult! We always provide hot meals for all paddlers, families, and crew at the finish of every race.
Thanks for making MPR what it is today!!
Shuttle Services
There are many partners that provide shuttle services for training or racing!
Thanks to our SPonsors!
RPC3
Hammer Nutrition
Hammer Nutrition
Thank you to RPC3 paddles, our title sponsor. If you are looking for a top of the line paddle at a very competitive price, then look no further and check out their line of full carbon paddles
Hammer Nutrition
Hammer Nutrition
Hammer Nutrition
A Leader in energy, endurance, and recovery fuels and supplements since 1987
Midwest Paddle Racing
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