Red River Paddle Challenge/Les Voyageurs Challenge
Sat, Sep 19
|Red River
Get ready for a once-in-a-century celebration on the water—because this year’s Red River Paddle Challenge is an event you absolutely won’t want to miss. This year we are marking a monumental milestone: the 100-year anniversary of the legendary Les Voyageurs Canoe Race.
Time & Location
Sep 19, 2026, 7:00 a.m. – Sep 20, 2026, 2:00 p.m.
Red River, Ste. Agathe, Winnipeg, Lockport. MB
About the event
In 1926 Winnipeg Canoe Club Commodore Fred G. Thompson started a 100 km canoe challenge from Winnipeg to Lockport via the Winnipeg Canoe Club, in honour of his brother, Lieutenant Edward “Pace” Thompson. This iconic race helped define a century of grit, endurance, and deep connection to Manitoba’s waterways, one we are proud to continue today!
This year’s Red River Paddle Challenge will weave the heritage of Canada’s longest-running canoe race into a vibrant, modern celebration—uniting past and present through special centennial programming. Special events will include a historical party at The Forks Historic Port including re-enactments, historical displays and celebrations. We will also release special edition swag and the opportunity to participate in the 110 km Les Voyageurs Challenge!
By hosting this historic year, the Red River Paddle Challenge isn’t just paying tribute to a rugged paddling tradition—it’s reigniting a purpose that has inspired generations: to explore, respect, and…