The New England Paddlesports Championship (NEPC) is once again inviting racers and spectators to enjoy a competitive day on the Connecticut River!
Canoe, kayak, SUP, and surf ski racers from across the Northeast compete for honors on New England’s historic Connecticut River between southwest New Hampshire and southeast Vermont. Racers can choose to run the 12-mile competitive course or the 5-mile recreational course. There will also be a 1-mile community challenge for those new to the sport. The course laps the Brattleboro-Hinsdale island by passing under the Rte. 119 bridges, where spectators cheer on competitors. NEPC is organized by Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) and is part of the New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association (NECKRA) Flatwater Point Series.
Registrations are currently being accepted, with more details here.
CRC and local partner organizations will organize on-site activities and info booths for spectators. Food and beverage trucks from J&B Curbside Care and Frisky Cow Gelato will also be parked and ready to serve. All activities will take place at Norm’s Marina in Hinsdale, NH, just over the bridge from Brattleboro, VT, on Sunday July 28th (with a storm date of the following Sunday, 8/4). Fees are topped at $20 for competitive racers, $10 for community challenge participants, and free for competing youth under 18 and all spectators.
The morning begins at 10am with on-site activities, followed by the New England Paddlesports Championship (NEPC) race at 10:30, and the community challenge launching at 10:45. Over 60 racers are expected to compete in 12-mile and 5-mile loops right off the shore from Norm’s Marina. There will be an awards ceremony, humorous relay race, and knowledgeable conservation experts on hand to share information about the Connecticut River and restoration efforts to support clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities.
"The NEPC is a wonderful opportunity for local communities and river-loving racers alike to enjoy a day on the water. The Connecticut River has a lot to offer, and we're excited to see folks come together, have fun, and maybe win a race!" says Kate Buckman, New Hampshire River Steward at Connecticut River Conservancy.
After missing last year due to severe flooding, this is the 45th year of the popular race. Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) will be joined by Brattleboro Reformer as an organizing and media partner, and other community partners. The event is generously supported by regional sponsors including the Savings Bank of Walpole, NorthStar Vermont Yankee Decommissioning, 802 Credit Union, Berkley & Veller Greenwood Country Realtors, and Reed & Reed among others.
For all details, including a full schedule and race registration, visit the NEPC information page.