It all started with a couple of students.

In 2015, Carson Lyness, and Molly Jennings, leaders in the University of Puget Sound Kayak Club, wanted to create a space where student boaters from all over could network, and race in a safe, supportive environment.  So, they reached out to other clubs in Washington and the Collegiate Whitewater Fest was born.  In the ten years since then, the CWF has grown to almost 200 racers, volunteers, and spectators from all over the PNW and beyond.​

Equitable Access

The most foundational goal of the CWF has always been to give equitable access to students of various skill levels.  That's why we only allow students to race, and why we have intermediate (class III) AND advanced (class IV+) races.  Plus, intermediates have options to have a safety volunteer escort if they need a little extra support.  This is also the only race in the PNW only for students (k-12 or 1/2 time enrolled higher ed.) and we limit racers to one race and one craft to spread the competitive love.

​It's all free (thanks to donors, and sponsors)

We know that costs are a huge obstacle to boating for many people.  So we work very hard to keep the CWF free to all racers, and volunteers.  Our hosts, Outdoor Adventure Center let us stay at their private campground for free. We also fundraise to pay for the ACA event insurance memberships ($10/person) so racers/volunteers can participate for free.  Finally, there's a free BBQ dinner and prize give away too!

​The swag station: best in the biz!

The second biggest obstacle to boating is the gear.  Thanks to a huge list of incredible sponsors and donors, we guarantee that EVERY SINGLE racer/volunteer goes home with quality gear.  Race winners get Werner paddles, 2nd/3rd place finishers get first dibs at the swag station, and then we use a lottery system for all other participants.