Press Release: The Great Alabama 650: Domination & Finishes at the AL650

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 14, 2025, 3:30 PM CST

The Great Alabama 650: Domination & Finishes at the AL650

FT. MORGAN, ALABAMA — After an exhilarating and challenging 650-mile paddle race across the waterways of Alabama, the Great Alabama 650 has reached its conclusion! Over the past ten days, paddlers from all over the world have pushed their limits and showcased remarkable determination through rain and shine, making this race a resounding success. The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) organization sincerely congratulates all the participants, including the top finishers in each category, for their remarkable achievements. Their incredible determination and skill inspire us and help us showcase Alabama’s water recreation opportunities to the world.

Final (10/14)

Tandem results:

Overall race winner

Matt Taylor and Bobby Johnson (5 days, 9 hours, 3 min)

Tandem category

1.Matt Taylor and Bobby Johnson (5 days, 9 hours, 3 min)

2. Trey Reaves and John Wellens (5 days, 19 hours, 15 min)

3. Jeb Berry and Susan Jordan (7 days, 5 hours, 36 min)

4. Izzy Nicolier and Lillian Nelson (9 days, 1 hour, 3 min)

Solo female results:

1.Salli O’Donnell (6 days, 17 hours, 53 min)

2. Gayle Taylor (9 days, 19 hours, 15 min)

Solo male results:

1. Chris Thomas (7 days and 51 min)

2. Jake VanLue (7 days, 2 hours, 54 min)

3. Eric Dittenber (7 days, 13 hours, 22 min)

4. Mirko Pruefer (7 days, 22 hours, 18 min)

5. Chris Logan (8 days, 4 hours, 41 min)

6. Gary Johnson (8 days, 20 hours, 40 min)

7. Jason Hochsprung (9 days, 20 hours, 55 min)

ASRT would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the seamless execution of this unforgettable race. Their dedication and hard work made the Great Alabama 650 a remarkable experience for all participants. The exceptional leadership of Race Director Greg Wingo and his company ROAM Projects played a pivotal role in the event’s success. Under his guidance, the Great Alabama 650 saw a successful year with 13 boats in total finishing at Fort Morgan.

This incredible event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their commitment to promoting water recreation experiences in Alabama has been instrumental in making the Great Alabama 650 a phenomenal success. We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors for their unwavering support. We have listed all our sponsors on AL650.com and have shared their support through our race socials, @GreatAlabama650 and #AL650. Companies or partners looking to sponsor next year’s race should contact Greg Wingo at [email protected].

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.

.