More than 650 Paddlers to embark on World’s Longest Nonstop River Race July 23-26

On July 23rd at 7:00am, more than 500 boats and nearly 700 racers will begin the 19th Annual Missouri American Water MR340 river race. Participants will paddle 340 miles from Kansas City to St. Charles in nonmotorized boats, kayaks and canoes in a four-day race to the finish line.

“The Missouri American Water MR340 race brings awareness to the importance of our rivers, specifically as reliable sources of drinking water for millions throughout the state,” said Rich Svindland, President, Missouri American Water.

“As the water service provider for one in four Missourians, our team is dedicated to the delivery of safe and clean water now and for future generations.” Race proceeds benefit the event host, Missouri River Relief and the Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Museum, organizations promoting environmental stewardship and education. Approximately 40 volunteers from Missouri American Water will join Missouri River Relief staff and hundreds of other volunteers to help organize and facilitate the race.

“The Missouri American Water MR340 brings together racers, ground crews, volunteers, towns & cities, sponsors and spectators from around the country and globe,” said Race Manager Taby Lane. “This wave of a few thousand participants will work across the state in a few days’ time and, together, make the race a wonderful experience and event promoting Missouri River Relief’s mission of drawing awareness and connecting people to the Missouri River.”

Race details can also be found at mr340.org. To view a map of the race course, visit Race Course - The MR340. For race tracking and results, including a map showing the location of racers, see raceowl.com. Racers and their support ground crews will be stopping at nearly all boat ramps along the Missouri River.