Annual PORPA Sprints set for Priest River

By Reader Staff

The Pend Oreille Rowing and Paddling Association is accepting event registrations to participate in the annual PORPA Sprints boat race, set to take place Saturday, Aug. 12 at the Priest River Recreation Area — a.k.a. “The Mudhole” — on U.S. Highway 2 east of Priest River.

PORPA is a club for rowing and other non-motorized water sports headquartered in Priest River, and its signature race is put on in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and volunteers from the Spokane River Rowing Association. According to organizers, the 2023

PORPA Sprints includes paddling events for kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards and rowing, and is open to all ages and skill levels with kids 17 and under registered for free.

Attendees are asked to register by Friday, Aug. 4 for scheduling purposes, but registration will also be available at 7 a.m. during check-in on the day of the race.

Teams will compete using three different kinds of non-motorized watercraft in a relay race, while the Kalispel Tribe will bring their traditional canoes and offer participants and spectators stories about the Priest River and other local waterways.

“This locally sponsored event is a great way to get to know fellow rowers and paddlers while learning about local opportunities for non-motorized water recreation,” organizers stated.

For more info, visit PORPA.org or Facebook at POrowingpaddlingAssoc. Local support and sponsors welcome, and should contact secretary@PORPA.org.