The 2024 Kayaking for Kids event, which took place Saturday on the Cumberland River, is expected to generate a record amount of money for Upward Basketball programs in Corbin and Williamsburg, and for family resource centers at the eight elementary schools across Whitley County, Corbin and Williamsburg.
Final numbers aren’t in yet, but the race is expected to generate between $24,000 – $25,000.
The race started at Whitley County’s river access point at Croley Bend and a total of 68 kayaks, boats and canoes along with at least one refrigerator crossed the finish line at Red Bird Bridge although there is no evidence the refrigerator submitted an entry form or paid its participation fee.
In the kayak division, Damon Hicks finished in first place, Ben Prewitt finished in second place and Javier Carbajal finished in third place.
In the boat division, Ralph Carte, Aaliyah Carbajal and Larriuce Felipe finished in first place, Jason and Katie Kersey finished in second place and Travis, Kayla, Hannah, Haley and Hudson Prewitt finished in third place.
Due to recent rains, the river was up significantly compared to usual, which caused racers to have to maneuver around logs, trash and other debris.
Racers picked up some trash as they went along, including at least one tire, one basketball and one football.
With the exception of the pandemic year, the race has taken place since 2017.
