These charity river races are part of the national circuit and times count toward national rankings. This event brings hundreds of canoeists and kayakers to Waldo County over the last weekend of March and first weekend of April. Last year, we had close to 200 boats and more than 300 people entered in the two races.

Proceeds raised from these events benefit WCY Aquatics programs including scholarships for Red Cross Lifeguard Certifications and the First Grade Swim Safety Course offered in coordination with schools county-wide to give kids a hands on opportunity to develop confidence and safe practices around water. The Waldo County YMCA is a 501©(3) non-profit serving Waldo County since 1977.

The right to reject any entry is reserved. Applications for all entrants under 18 years of age must be co-signed by a parent or guardian on the day of the race. 

Starting will be based on the order of registration.

St. George Race Packet Pick up will open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at the Searsmont Methodist Church in downtown Searsmont. 

First paddlers start at 11 a.m. 

Registration can be found on our website at https://www.waldocountyymca.org/2025-river-races

To become a sponsor, see https://www.waldocountyymca.org/2024-wcy-river-race-sponsorships