FAQ's for TN River Blueway Canoe and Kayak Race
September 22, 2007
What kind of river is the Tennessee?
The Tennessee River in Chattanooga is a dam-controlled Class I commercial waterway, with an approximate 1/8 to 1/4 mile width along the race course. The Tennessee Valley Authority determines the current, which generally runs around 2 - 3 mph, depending on the amount of water being released from upstream dams. The Canoe and Kayak race course will start from the mouth of South Chickamauga Creek, a quiet stream approximately 1 mile downstream from Chickamauga Dam.
Is the Tennessee River a difficult river to paddle?
No. However, as in any waterway, there are inherent natural and man-made hazards, e.g. strainers, floating logs, motorboats, and commercial barges. Please make sure that your skill level is appropriate for the race.
What is the race course like?
Paddlers will be racing river left of the main navigation channel, along the south shore of the Tennessee River. Much of the course parallels a multi-use paved greenway called the Tennessee Riverwalk. You can see the race course on this Riverwalk Map .
What is a "racing kayak?"
A kayak built specifically to race, e.g. Olympic Sprint, Surfski, Thunderbolt, Wildwater, Phantom, very narrow across the beam and FAST. If your kayak has hatches, it's not a racing kayak.
Is there a category for single racing canoes?
No. You will be competing in the general canoe categories.
Where do I launch my boat?
At the Tennessee Riverpark on the south shore
Map and Driections
or the City of Chattanooga's Rivermont Park on the north shore
Map and Directions
* Both offer free parking. The race start at South Chickamauga Creek is 1/4 mile downstream from the Riverpark (south shore) and directly across the river and slightly downstream from Rivermont Park (north shore).
* You will need to allow a minimum of 15 minutes to get from either launch to the race start. We recommend 20 - 30.
Where do I get my race packet?
Race packets will be available for pick up at Rock Creek Down Under, 191 River St., Chattanooga TN 37405. (888) 707-6709 or (423) 265-1836 on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 20 & 21 from 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Map and Directions
IF YOU CAN'T PICK UP YOUR PACKET UNTIL THE MORNING OF THE RACE, YOU MUST LAUNCH AT THE TENNESSEE RIVERPARK ON THE SOUTH SHORE. PACKETS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AT RIVERMONT PARK.
Will a Shuttle be available after the race?
You will be responsible for your own shuttle. However, the Chattanooga Water Taxi will make a couple of runs back to the put-ins for a small charge after the awards ceremony.
Will my boat be secure at the waterfront?
The layout at Ross' Landing means that your boat will be sitting right next to the post-race festival area, where there will be lots of competitors, volunteers, and spectators milling about. The areas where we'll be putting in and taking out are relatively safe. However, do not leave your boat, car, gear, or anything else of value unlocked in parking lots or anywhere else that you can't keep an eye on things. Outdoor Chattanooga or any of our sponsors will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.
Where do I park?
There is free parking at the Tennessee Riverpark and Rivermont Park. We will have people directing traffic the morning of the race. Parking at the downtown waterfront costs $5 all day.
Where are other boat launches in the downtown Chattanooga area?
There are three launches, two on the north shore: Coolidge Park by the Chattanooga Theatre Centre and Renaissance Park under the Market St. Bridge, and one on the south shore along Riverfront Parkway, upstream of the Marine Max Marina and the Olgiati Bridge. If you are from out of town, ask any of the locals and we'll tell you how to find the launches. We recommend using the Renaissance Park and Riverfront Parkway launches.
What else is there to do in Chattanooga?
The Tennessee Aquarium/IMAX Theatre, Creative Discovery Museum, Hunter Museum of American Art, river excursions, movie theatre, pubs, restaurants, book stores, coffee houses, etc. are all within short walks of the race finish line at Ross' Landing. If you're bringing family along with you, you'll find plenty to do. Visit the Chattanooga Convention and Visitors Bureau.
