WHITEWATER CHAMPIONSHIPS ON MARCH 20-21

FREDERICKTOWN -- Kayakers and canoeists can compete for ribbons and glory at the Missouri Whitewater Championships. The event, which tests boaters' ability to operate their craft for speed and precision, will take place March 20 and 21 on the St. Francis River at Millstream Gardens Conservation Area.

Competition for open canoes and several kayak racing classes will kick off the event March 20. Racers of various skill and age levels will compete in downriver and slalom races.

The downriver competition will take place on a 3-mile course that starts about a half mile upstream from Millstream Gardens and ends just upstream from the Highway D bridge at Silver Mines Recreation Area. Racers in the slalom events demonstrate their ability to maneuver through gates on a boulder-strewn course. The day will end with a banquet and awards ceremony honoring the day's winning racers. Events scheduled for March 21 include races for decked canoes and the expert kayak classes and a raffle.

Registration to compete in the Missouri Whitewater Championships is $25 for American Canoe Association members and $30 for nonmembers. The cost for the banquet is $10 for adults and $6 for children. March 27 and 28 are alternate dates for the competition if low water or inclement weather forces a postponement. For more information on the Missouri Whitewater Championships, send e-mail inquiries to or call the Fredericktown Chamber of Commerce at 573/783-2604.