The Gauntlet

The Gauntlet is a paddle race held on the Lower Cahaba River in Orrville, Alabama, starting and finishing at the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park. Participants race upstream against a mild current to a turnaround point before returning to the start. The event offers two distances: a 10-mile race and a 20-mile race, featuring various categories including canoe, surfski, kayak, recreational kayak, stand-up paddleboard (hardboard and inflatable), and outrigger canoe, with solo and tandem options.

The race showcases beautiful river scenery and wildlife, providing a challenging and scenic end-of-year paddling event. Prizes and finisher items are awarded, with entry fees of $50 for 10 miles and $75 for 20 miles. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.