February 23, 2026
Ottawa residents Andrea and Michael Stewart paddling away during the 2025 Raisin River Canoe Race. Photo by Stan McCrae.
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) opened online registration on February 23 for its 53rd annual Raisin River Canoe Race, which is taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
A longstanding spring tradition in eastern Ontario, the Raisin River Canoe Race attracts paddlers of all ages and abilities from across the region and beyond. Each year, participants put their speed and endurance to the test as they navigate swift currents, rushing rapids, and cold spring flows in one of the area’s most anticipated outdoor events.
“For many paddlers, the Canoe Race is as much about the experience as it is about the competition,” says RRCA Canoe Race Coordinator Lissa Deslandes. “The 30-kilometre route from St. Andrews West to Williamstown showcases the beauty of the Raisin River watershed, while the spring melt creates exciting and dynamic river conditions.”
Spectators are encouraged to come out and enjoy the action. Each year, hundreds gather along shorelines and bridges at key viewing points to cheer on racers as they pass by in canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. The race officially begins at 10:30 am in the field beside St. Andrew’s Catholic School in St. Andrews West, when the first wave of paddlers launches from the riverbank.
“Last year the average time to reach the finish line was 4 hours and 17 minutes,” says Deslandes. “The fastest time down the river – 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 31 seconds – was claimed by the pro canoe duo of Joel Malenfant and Perry Rancourt, both from Shawinigan, Québec.”
Participants must register online in advance through the RRCA’s website at rrca.on.ca/CanoeRace. Limited race-day registration may be available, space permitting. Community members are invited to follow the RRCA on social media, subscribe to its monthly newsletter, and visit its website for event updates and announcements. The RRCA thanks its dedicated volunteers, safety committee members, community partners, and sponsors whose ongoing support makes the Raisin River Canoe Race possible year after year.
One of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities, the RRCA provides its member municipalities with community-led, watershed-based natural resource management, including protection from natural hazards such as flooding and erosion, land stewardship incentives, municipal drinking water source protection, land conservation, and recreation opportunities. To learn more, visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3811 or info@rrca.on.ca.