Press Release: The Great Alabama 650: The longest US Paddle Race

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release Date: Aug. 20, 2025, 10:30 AM CST

Media Contact:

Savannah Schmidt

Communications Specialist

Alabama Scenic River Trail, Inc.

[email protected]

Work: 314.422.9572

The Great Alabama 650: The longest US Paddle Race

ALABAMA — 28 of the best paddlers from across North America and Europe will converge on Alabama in October for the 7th annual Great Alabama 650, a state-wide race that tests endurance paddling to its limits. Racers will face whitewater, battle tidewater currents and traverse around nine dams in this 650-mile nonstop, adventure-style paddle race. It kicks off in Northeast Alabama at Weiss Lake on Oct. 4, and spectators can cheer for paddlers during the race from riverbanks in Gadsden, Pell City, Wetumpka, Montgomery, Selma, Fairhope and more.

The race course is the core section of the longest National Water Trail, the Alabama Scenic River Trail, which extends from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Northeast Alabama down through the heart of Alabama and on to Mobile Bay and the Gulf. The race is hosted by the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) organization, which serves as the state’s official paddling resource, collaborating with communities to promote recreation, economic vitality and stewardship of Alabama’s waterways.

Racers will have up to ten days to finish the race and secure a first-place win in one of three divisions: male solo, female solo and two-person team. Participants can interchangeably use kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards throughout the event. Spectators can follow virtually at AL650.com, where a live map will report up-to-the-minute updates on the racer’s progress. ASRT Race Staff will also share live race information through Facebook and Instagram posts, available on the official race accounts (@GreatAlabama650) or by searching #AL650.

Who: 28 Racers, 20 Boats

What: The Great Alabama 650: a 650-Mile Alabama Professional Ultra-Endurance Paddle Race

When: October 4-14, 2025

Where: Alabama Scenic River Trail- Weiss Lake, Coosa River, Alabama River, to Mobile Bay & Fort Morgan

Website: AL650.com

Social Media: @GreatAlabama650 and #AL650

The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) maintains and promotes the core National Water Trail, along with a network of over 6,500 miles of paddling trails throughout the state. The organization’s trail network spans from North Alabama mountain streams and whitewater rapids to South Alabama’s river deltas, making it one of the most varied water trail networks in the nation. As a nonprofit, ASRT operates through collaborations with local partners, organizations, and outfitters, serving as the state’s paddling resource for all skill levels. The Great Alabama 650, ASRT’s signature race, highlights the full scope of these waterways, promoting appreciation and recognition of the state’s exceptional water recreation opportunities. Learn more by visiting ASRT.me.