Spey Challenge
What is the Spey Challenge?
The Spey Challenge is an open paddle sport challenge event which has been running for 10 years. It is organised by members of the Nairn Kayak Club and meets the rules and entry requirements of Scottish Paddling. The River Spey is one of Britain’s most iconic rivers and its fast flowing. The Spey is world recognised for salmon fishing and whisky production, but it is also a wonderful river to paddle in any type of paddle sport craft.
The event takes place on the last Sunday of April each year and is divided into two categories – ‘Long Course’ and ‘Short Course’ options.
Spey Challenge 2024
Spey Challenge 2024 was held on April 28th 2024 and the race was run on a damp day in Speyside. I was acting as the ‘sweeper’ on the long course. The person at the back of the whole group, picking up any stragglers and making sure everyone got back down the river to the end point at Arberlour safely. I am a qualified canoe and kayak guide, so perfectly equiped for the job!
Water levels were reasonably good for the event, not to dry. But there was a head wind which the participants were paddling into.
Around 65 paddlers took part, only three were on the short course. As with the recent trend there were increasing numbers of paddleboarders taking up the challenge.
All participants are invited to bring along – Cake. At the end of the event this is shared between everyone making this an incredible social paddle sport event. Celebrating the taking part in the event is very important.
Spey Challenge Long Course
The stetch of the River Spey from Delnapot (Grid Reference: Sheet 28, 158370) to Victoria suspension bridge in Aberlour. This race covers 10 miles (17km) and has the grade II rapids of the ‘Washing Machine’ and Knockando Rapids in the first section of the route.
Spey Challenge Short Courses
The stretch of the River Spey from the end of the Knockando Rapids. to Victoria Suspension Bridge in Aberlour. Distance 6.5 miles. This is the second, and easier, half of the long course. The race covers 6.5 miles (11km).
Who can enter?
The event is open to all paddlers in any type of canoe or kayak and river SUP (e.g. K1/K2’s, Plastic, Canadian, Slalom, WWR, sea kayak, sit on top). You can find out about each years race via the Spey Challenge Facebook page.
Is the event safe?
Buoyancy aids are compulsory for all paddlers. Helmets are required for any competitors in closed cockpit boats and all SUPs (e.g. White-water racers, sea kayaks, WW boats, etc.), and recommended for all. Participants are required to wear a personal floatation device.
Race organizers have the right to refuse entry to the race should they deem any craft unfit for purpose. Attendance at the pre-race safety briefing is compulsory.