Welcome to the Explore Kentucky Initiative’s (EKI) second annual Bluegrass River Run (BRR). The BRR paddlesports float and races were created to encourage local citizens & visitors to take in the majesty of the commonwealth’s namesake waterway, the Kentucky River. This year, paddlers will embark from Fort Boonesborough State Park (FBSP), home to the site of historic Fort Boonesborough, which was founded by the great frontiersman Daniel Boone. Their journey from FBSP immerses them in the impressive limestone geology of the beautiful palisades (canyon system) section of the Kentucky River, and they are able to experience the ambiance of early spring with beautiful views of river banks in full bloom. 

The 6 mile float and race ends in the Clays Ferry region in Madison and Fayette counties, and the 19 mile race ends near the historic Valley View Ferry which has been in operation since 1780. Post event, paddlers rally at Proud Mary’s BBQ for a festival which includes live music, awards ceremony, raffle prizes, and rad booths from our sponsors/partners.

The Bluegrass River Run is part of the EKI’s Kentucky Waterman Series, the commonwealth’s first ever paddlesports racing league which was founded in 2017. The 2018 season features 11 events that take place across all regions of Kentucky including Appalachia, and western, central, and northern Kentucky.  This will be the first event of the 2018 Kentucky Waterman Series and our first down river race/float of the year; making it a perfect way to start the season. Last May, we had over 100 paddlers from 10 states attend the BRR. Countless memories were made that weekend, and tons of high fives were exchanged. We’re excited to do it again for 2018!