The Gauntlet

This is an out and back paddle race on the Lower Cahaba River starting and ending at the confluence with the Alabama River. Racers will paddle upstream on the Lower Cahaba to a turnaround point and then race back. The 10 mile race will begin one hour before the 20 mile race. Racers will battle against the mild river current and other racers coming at them! This is a great end of the year challenge on a beautiful river with amazing sights and wildlife!

November 8, 2025

Start and finish at Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, AL 36767

Categories

Categories:
Each are either solo or tandem, either male or female. Tandem can be any mix of male and/or female.
Canoe
Surfski
Kayak
Rec Kayak (sit on top)
SUP hardboard
SUP Inflatable
OC

Official categories must have 3 or more boats entered, otherwise the boat will be moved to the next fastest category in order to place. Anyone entered into the 20 mile race on SUP inflatable or Rec Kayak must demonstrate that they have race experience or they will be moved down to the 10 mile race.

Cost

20 Mile Race: $75/racer
10 Mile Race: $50/racer

All racers receive race swag and a finisher item.
1st, 2nd, and 3rd are recognized with special finisher items as long as the category has a minimum 6 entries. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS. Races are expensive to produce so if you sign up you must be willing to accept the cost. A refund will only be provided in the event that the race is cancelled.

Prizes

Overall 20 mile winner regardless of category receives $200
2nd place overall 20 mile regardless of category receives $100
3rd place overall 20 mile regardless of category receives $75

Overall 10 mile winner regardless of category receives $100
2nd place overall 10 mile regardless of category receives $75
3rd place overall 10 mile regardless of category receives $50. PRIZE MONEY IS DEPENDENT ON A MINIMUM OF 30 SIGNUPS.

Event's current local time: 3:27 PM CT