Competition
Have you ever thought about competing in downriver racing or freestyle competitions? Colorado Whitewater supports amateurs through professionals. Most competitions have categories for boaters of all skill levels and ages. We'd like to see you at one of our sponsored events!
Competitions at Whitewater Festivals
Whitewater festivals offer various river-based competitions and races for beginners through experts. Events include freestyle kayak rodeo, kayak downriver race, SUP surfing, SUP downriver race, slalom races, rafting races, and more. Check out the list of Colorado Whitewater Festivals & Events and sign up for an event.
Golden Rodeo &
Downriver Sprint 2025
brought to you by
Golden Community Rodeo – Kayak Fun for All!
Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025
Location: Golden, CO
Sponsored by: Golden River Sports
Come have some fun at the Golden Community Rodeo! Whether you're paddling or just there to cheer, there's something for everyone.
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Open to all skill levels – from first-timers to confident intermediates.
(Sorry, no pros allowed – let the community shine!) -
Cheer on local kayakers as they show off their river skills!
Downriver Race – Adventure Continues!
Thursday, July 10th, 2025
Another exciting challenge awaits! Join us for a thrilling Downriver Race. Stay tuned for full details below.
Photo credit: Mike Berkow Photography
EVENT: FREESTYLE competition (July 2nd) is open to all kayakers* of all skill levels. Participants will be grouped to compete in appropriate categories based on their age, gender, and skill level - typically Junior, Beginner, Intermediate, Expert, and Master’s Divisions for both men and women.
TIME: Registration begins at 5:00pm. Competition starts at 5:30pm.
LOCATION: Clear Creek Whitewater Park in downtown Golden
COST: Admission to compete in the rodeo is free. However, you must be a current Colorado Whitewater member for insurance purposes. Renew or sign up today or at the event for only $35, which includes entry to the event and a one-year membership to Colorado Whitewater.
PRIZES: Awards and giveaways for competitors!
AFTER PARTY: Join us at Lions Park - across the street from the COMPETITION on July 2nd! ALL are welcome, so go run Tunnel 1, Lower Clear Creek, Rigor Mortis, Lower Narrows, or Black Rock and then come to the PARTY!
For questions about the event or to become a sponsor, contact Nik White.
*Must be at least 8 years of age. No pros allowed.
* Free to all CW members (not a member yet? then join at the event)
We'd love to see TONS of boaters and spectators at the Rodeo, so please share this!
EVENT: DOWNRIVER RACE (July 10th) is open to all kayakers of all skill levels. Participants will be grouped to compete in appropriate categories.
TIME: Registration begins at 5:00pm. Competition starts at 5:30pm.
LOCATION: Clear Creek Whitewater Park in downtown Golden
COST: Admission to compete in the downriver race is free. However, you must be a current Colorado Whitewater member for insurance purposes. Renew or sign up today or at the event for only $35, which includes entry to the event and a one-year membership to Colorado Whitewater.
PRIZES: Awards and giveaways for competitors!
AFTER PARTY: Join us at Lions Park on July 10th! ALL are welcome!
For questions about the event or to become a sponsor, contact Nik White.
*Must be at least 8 years of age.
* Free to all CW members (not a member yet? then join at the event)
We'd love to see TONS of boaters and spectators at the Downriver Race, so please share this!
A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS:
Whether it’s kayaks, stand-up-paddleboards, or canoes, Golden River Sports is your one-stop paddle shop on the Front Range. Located in downtown Golden, CO on Washington Ave., GRS is only two blocks from the longest whitewater playpark in the Rockies. If you’re looking for a new boat or just a new drain plug, GRS has you covered on whatever you need. Not only does GRS have a full rental fleet of kayaks, inflatable kayaks (duckies), stand-up-paddleboards, and other various gear but they also offer free demo nights at the Clear Creek Playpark every Thursday when the water level is permitting. With a passionate and knowledgeable staff that’s more than happy to help any style boater, GRS has what you need.