2025 Grand River Madhatters Canoe And Kayak Race Review

It was a chilly but fun morning of paddling on the Grand River at the Lake Metroparks Madhatters Canoe and Kayak Race.  A record number of participants registered for this year’s race with over 380 canoe racers, kayakers, and paddle borders braving the cold 45 degree weather to take on the 8.5 mile downriver course. 

I competed in the 14’ and under kayak division which included 115 paddlers. I raced my Liquidlogic Intuit 13.5. I finished 7th overall with a time of 1:21:01. I finished in 1st place in my division.  I beat last year’s time by 8 minutes.  Last year 80 kayaks competed in the 14’ and under kayak race. 35 kayaks added to the race class over last year was a huge increase.  
The Liquidlogic Kayaks Intuit 13.5 is a very capable well designed boat.  The bow cuts the water well. It does struggle a bit to keep up with the composite 14’ kayaks some racers were using being 7” shorter and 20-30 pounds heavier.  A rudder would have been helpful also for better tracking when hitting heavier currents.  I believe 5 of the 6 kayaks that finished ahead of me were composite boats.  I think I’m doing pretty good if most of the kayaks beating me are light and fast composite boats. 
After a slow deliberate start to make sure I was properly tucked into my kayak with spray skirt secured and full paddle gloves on.

I quickly got into a paddling rhythm and headed down the river. It took about 3 miles for my hands to warm up but after that I was fairly comfortable even though it was so cold.  

The race was really well organized.  Awards are not presented after the race because the finish area park sits so low in a valley there is no internet service.  Shuttles transport participants back to their vehicles at the start location.  All participants received a nice finisher medal and t-shirt.  

Congratulations to all of my kayak and canoe friends who raced and did awesome!  It’s always great to see them!