MR340 annual river race on Missouri River ends mid-race due to rains, flooding, debris
Racers were told to exit at the nearest boat ramp after the wet weather and river conditions forced organizers to end the 18th Annual Missouri American Water MR340 early, according to the event’s website.
The paddlers were told on Wednesday afternoon that the race, the world’s longest non-stop river race, would be “ending now.”
“A rising river, increased driftwood and debris (including large trees), flooding tributaries, a storm with very heavy rain targeting the final 100+ miles of the race combined with nighttime paddling and no moon light combine with other variables to make this decision,” the announcement said.
The race, which features hundreds of boats, got underway Tuesday at Kaw Point in Kansas City, Kansas, and was to end in St. Charles, Missouri.
Organizers still planned to have Finish Line Party and special ceremony Friday evening at the Lewis and Clark Boathouse in St. Charles.
The National Weather Service in Kansas City on Thursday tweeted out a map showing rainfall totals for past 48 hours.
“It’s been a rainy past few mornings . . . a bit more rainy for some compared to others,” the weather service said on X, formerly known as Twitter.
