Potomac Paddle-Off
September kayak race in Georgetown.
Kayakers will take to the water on Saturday, September 20, 2025, for the inaugural Potomac Paddle Off, a family-friendly race hosted on the iconic Georgetown waterfront. Participants will paddle beneath the historic Key Bridge in a spirited upstream-and-back course all for a cleaner, healthier Potomac River. For more information, click here.
The event is hosted by Boating in DC in partnership with Potomac Conservancy, with proceeds supporting the Conservancy’s local efforts to restore the river’s health and protect it for future generations.
“The Potomac Paddle Off is more than just a race. It’s a rally for clean water,” said Aquil Abdullah, the event’s emcee and a former Olympic rower whose career launched on the Potomac River. “Every stroke we take together helps power progress toward a swimmable, fishable river for everyone.”
Participants can register for the 1.5 mile or 5k course, open to all skill levels, with single or tandem kayak options available. Kayaks and all gear are provided. Paddlers and spectators can enjoy refreshments, music, and river-themed activities on shore.
Boating in DC, which operates several boathouses along the Potomac River, is excited to invite families and paddlers of all ages to celebrate the river in a new way. “This is the kind of event that brings the community together whether you’re racing, cheering from the shore, or learning how to make a difference for our river,” said Guest Services CEO, Nico Foris
