Despite being a (mostly) spectator-less event, the Little White Salmon Race has brought the global paddling community together for more than 10 years. The race includes downriver, slalom (previously time trial), and team events. This year, a small cluster of supporters gathered on a rocky outcrop on the bank downriver.
There’s not a lot of infrastructure to this race, and that’s the beauty of it.
Last month, 75 paddlers showed up to the 2023 race, compared to a field of fewer than 30 paddlers the first year. Some paddlers set goals to get under a certain time, whether that’s sub-17 minutes or sub-1 hour. But mostly, the common goal is to ride some stout and have fun — and not swim.
2023 Results
- Men’s: Evan Garcia (14:30), Andrew McEwen (14:31), Isaac Leninson (14:41)
- Women’s: Nouria Newman (15:43), Darby McAdams (16:17), Adriene Levknecht (16:34)
- Teams: Matt Anger & Nate Garcia (15:53), Dave Fusilli & Trevor Sheehan (16:08), Tad Dennis & Brad McMillan (16:15)
The verdict? You don’t have to be the fastest, most competitive racer to participate. The Little White Salmon Race is all about the chance to enjoy some great paddling and have fun. What are you waiting for?
Runtime: 4 minutes
