6th Annual Salt Springs Classic Kayak Race & Fun Paddle

Launch at CSO Headquarters, 9120 Old Post Road, Port Richey, FL
Finish at Sims Park, downtown New Port Richey, FL

The Nature Coast's premier kayak competition featuring a 5-1/2 mile river and open-water course. Paddle from the scenic lagoons and inlets of Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park through the open Gulf of Mexico waters and up the Pithlachascotee River to downtown New Port Richey. Intermediate and expert kayakers are invited to test their skills against some of the best racers - with the record for this course being just under 48 minutes. Awards will be given to the 1st three finishers in three classes; over 15 feet, under 15 feet, and tandem.

Novice paddlers, or those who just enjoy paddling, are invited to try the "fun paddle" class. No awards ... just a lot of enjoyment on the water - and the satisfaction of saying you completed the course.

Registration fees:

    $15 for kayak singles race
    $25 for tandem race ($12.50 per person)
    $10 per person for fun paddle

Your entry fee includes transportation after the race back to the launch point to retrieve your vehicle. Each participant will also receive a souvenir gift for taking part. In previous years, this has been a T-shirt or cap. This year's participant gift is yet to be determined.

Event Details

Pre-registration for the race is highly recommended. Use the button above to make your advance reservation and pay the entry fee with PayPal or a credit card. Paddlers who do not pre-register should allow extra time on the morning of the race and must pay the registration fee in cash.

Sign-in will begin at 8:00 AM at the race start location at CSO Headquarters, 9120 Old Post Road, Port Richey, FL. A Captain's meeting will be held at 8:30 AM. Please allow yourself adequate time to sign in and off-load your kayak before the Captain's meeting. Each participant must sign a liability waiver - those under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their form. Paddlers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.

If you want to paritcipate in the race, but do not have your own kayak, you will need to make advance reservations for a rental.

You can view pictures and race results from previous years by selecting "Past Events" at the left side of this page.

Event Rules

• No refunds will be given after May 1, 2012.
• A U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device must be worn during the event.
• A paddle tether and whistle are required for each kayak.
• No alcohol is permitted on the race course.
• All participants must attend the Captain's meeting, to be held at 8:30 AM, prior to entering the water at the launch point.