NITRO, W.Va. — Watersport enthusiasts and newcomers will have opportunities Saturday to enjoy paddleboarding at the first Ridenour Regatta at Ridenour Lake.
Saturday’s event, which begins at 10 a.m., will include paddleboard and boat racing, as well as land activities such as volleyball and corn hole. Around 100 vendors will also be on hand selling foods and products.
Evan Young, co-owner of Appalachian Boarding Company and the state director of the American Canoe Association, said Ridenour Lake is a great place for paddleboard beginners.
“It’s flat water and little to no wind at most times,” he said. “It’s the perfect setting for beginners to gain their sea legs before they take on bigger waters like the Kanawha River or some of the other local rivers that may have a little bit swifter current at certain times.”
Paddle races will be held beginning at 1 p.m.
Other activities on Saturday include an “Anything That Floats” race at 11 a.m.
Fishers will be able to take part in a catfish-fishing tournament Friday evening between 6 p.m. and midnight, with prizes being awarded for the heaviest and longest fish. The cost of entry is $15.
The Nitro Trivia Run on Ridenour Park’s walking trails will begin at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Runners will have to answer 10 questions about the city’s history.
The event concludes at 9 p.m. with a showing of “Jaws.”