Red River PaddleCast

Red River Paddle Challenge
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Red River PaddleCast, hosted by Brad Friesen, dives into the stories, grit, and river magic behind the Red River Paddle Challenge. Each episode brings you conversations with past, present, and future paddlers, plus the community leaders who help shape our sport. Fans will love the behind‑the‑scenes insights, wild adventure tales, training wisdom, and the shared passion that fuels this growing paddling community.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    The Power of Perseverance: Elizabeth Ashe’s Kayaking Journey & Red River Paddle Challenge Experience

    Discover Elizabeth Ashe's inspiring story of stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing the challenge of kayaking, culminating in her participation in the 2025 Red River Paddle Challenge. This episode highlights her journey from a novice paddler to completing a demanding race, emphasizing resilience, preparation, and community support. In this episode: Elizabeth's background and early water experiences, including her first kayak trip at Hopewell Rocks. Motivations for signing up for her first Paddle Challenge at age 47. Her training approach and gear choices, including her first kayak from Facebook Marketplace. The emotional experience of her first race, from nerves to the feeling of accomplishment. Practical tips on race preparation: gear, nutrition, pacing, and dealing with tough moments. The importance of community, support, and volunteering in paddling events. Lessons learned from her race journey and plans for this year's challenge. Resources & Links: Wilderness SupplyKayak Manitoba Facebook GroupRed River Paddle Challenge WebsiteRed River Paddle Challenge Facebook Group

    48 min

  2. May 19

    Honouring a Century of Paddling: Les Voyageurs Canoe Race and the Red River Paddle Challenge

    Join us as we explore the rich history of paddling in Manitoba, focusing on the legendary Les Voyageurs Canoe Race and its upcoming 100th anniversary. Our guest, John Thompson, shares stories spanning multiple generations, the evolution of paddling gear, and the significance of this historic race in Canadian canoeing culture. Discover how modern events like the Red River Paddle Challenge connect the past with the present and celebrate Manitoba’s paddling heritage. Main topics: The origins and history of the Winnipeg Canoe Club and Les Voyageurs Canoe Race. The race route, rules, and challenges faced by early paddlers, including portages and weight restrictions. The evolution of paddling gear from wood canvas boats to modern carbon fiber racing shells. Notable paddlers in history: Bill Brigden, Don Starkell, Norm Crerar, Gib McEachern, and their impact on marathon paddling. The story behind the iconic race shield, updating it with this year’s winners, and plans for preserving this piece of history. Traditional rituals and customs, such as the "paddler’s breakfast" involving giant pickles and the opening of canoe season with a floating rum barrel. The importance of the river as a historical transportation route and its resurgence as a recreational and racing waterway. The revival of Les Voyageurs Canoe Race as part of the 100th anniversary celebration of Manitoba’s paddling heritage at the 2026 Red River Paddle Challenge. Resources & Links: Red River Paddle Challenge & Les Voyageurs Challenge websiteRegister for the 2026 eventLet’s celebrate Manitoba’s paddling heritage and ensure the legacy continues for the next hundred years!

    41 min

  3. May 5

    Paddling for a Purpose: Supporting Cancer Communities through the Never Alone Cancer Foundation

    Join us in this episode as we explore the inspiring work of the Never Alone Cancer Foundation in Winnipeg, dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. Learn how community-driven events like dragon boating and creative fundraisers foster strength, hope, and connection among survivors and supporters alike. Thanks to Shonna Newans and Fred Clark for joining me in this episode. Key Topics Covered: The origins and mission of the Never Alone Cancer Foundation Personal survivor stories and their impact on community support How dragon boating serves as a metaphor and activity for healing and unity Upcoming community events including dragon boat races, fundraisers, and festivals Strategies for engaging volunteers and community participation Creative fundraising ideas, including themed cookies and raffles Key details about race distances, safety protocols, and event logistics The ripple effect of healing and support fostered through shared experiences and ceremonies Links: Never Alone Cancer Foundation websiteJoin a Dragon Boat TeamManitoba Paddling Association

    44 min

  4. Apr 21

    Keith Holm: From Unicycles to Paddleboards - Adventures Across Land and Water

    In this episode, we explore the exhilarating world of paddleboarding, racing, and outdoor challenges with Keith Holmes, an avid paddler and outdoor enthusiast. Keith shares his journey from building his own paddleboard to competing in ultra-distance races and exploring winter adventures on fat bikes and unicycles. Key Topics Covered: Keith's paddling beginnings: from paddleboard building to race participationTips for building a custom paddleboard and the challenges involvedInsights into ultra-distance races like the Red River Paddle Challenge and Mississippi River 145Cross-disciplinary skills: how sailing experience enhances paddlingWinter sports and adventures: fat biking on lakes, Lake Winnipeg crossings, and ice road adventuresLessons learned from long-distance races: pacing, nutrition, and gear choicesThe community and camaraderie in paddling and winter sports eventsFuture plans and upcoming races in the paddle communityJoin us to be inspired by Keith’s expansive outdoor adventures, from paddleboarding races to winter unicycling across frozen lakes. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just starting out, his stories showcase the thrill of adventure and the community spirit of outdoor sports. Links: Red River Paddle ChallengeTwo Paddles Canoe & Kayak RacesBlackfish PaddlesNSP Paddleboards

    53 min

  5. Apr 19

    Sean Stoesz: From Whitewater to Ultra Races - How One Paddler Conquers Extreme Challenges

    In this episode, Sean Stoesz shares his journey from whitewater kayaking to ultra-distance paddling, including record-breaking challenges on the Red River and experiences paddling with polar bears and navigating ice labyrinths. Tune in for inspiring stories, race insights, and practical advice for paddlers of all levels. Key topics: How Sean transitioned from whitewater kayaking to long-distance racingHighlights from the Yukon River QuestRecord-setting paddle from Emerson to Lockport and lessons learnedEncounters with wildlife, including polar bears in remote locationsTraining strategies for ultra-distance and prep for the Yukon 1000Community growth and evolution of paddling gear in ManitobaTips for aspiring racers and community involvementLinks: Red River Paddle ChallengeTwo Paddles Canoe & Kayak RacesYukon River QuestYukon 1000River Hawk Boat ShopPaddling Magazine FKP ArticleConnect with Sean: Instagram

    50 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

Red River PaddleCast, hosted by Brad Friesen, dives into the stories, grit, and river magic behind the Red River Paddle Challenge. Each episode brings you conversations with past, present, and future paddlers, plus the community leaders who help shape our sport. Fans will love the behind‑the‑scenes insights, wild adventure tales, training wisdom, and the shared passion that fuels this growing paddling community.

Information

  • Creator
    Red River Paddle Challenge
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Red River Paddle Challenge
  • Show Website
    Red River PaddleCast