PORPA Sprints celebrates non-motorized watercraft

By Reader Staff

Paddlers and water lovers should head down to the Mudhole — a.k.a. the Priest River Recreation Area off of Highway 2 — on Saturday, Aug. 8 for the Pend Oreille Rowing and Paddling Association Sprints. These all-ages races celebrate non-motorized watercraft, giving participants the opportunity to grab a paddle and test their athletic limits, or just enjoy a day out on the water.

The nonprofit PORPA promotes water safety and recreation in the Pend Oreille River Valley, partnering with the Long Bridge Swim to bring free swimming lessons to area children, among other community outreach activities. Hosted in conjunction with the Spokane River Rowing Association and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the annual PORPA Sprints are a safe, challenging opportunity to show off, practice or learn a new skill. Participants can use kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, rafts and other oar-propelled equipment.

Setup begins at 7 a.m., after which athletes can begin checking in and attend the mandatory safety meeting at 7:45 a.m. Races are separated by length, age and experience, and will run every 30 minutes from 8-11:45 a.m. Participants will then gather for a 1 p.m. lunch and award ceremony, followed by free rowing lessons at 2:30 p.m.

View the complete schedule and register online for $25 at PORPA.org. Children ages 18 and younger race for free.