Rubber Duck Emergency Services successfully rescued every rubber ducky from the Great Kanawha.

The Kanawha River in Winfield became a lively place this past Saturday, June 6, as the Winfield Watersports Weekend brought stand up paddleboarding and kayaking to the area. With a 5K paddle event and shorter races on the water, there were numerous opportunities for participants to enjoy the Kanawha.

The weekend kicked off on Friday evening with free stand up paddleboard lessons and a sunset float which previewed the course for the 5K. There was also live music by the Sled Dogs and several food trucks.

Saturday morning started out with the 5K Paddle and Float from the boat ramp to the high school and back. Later in the day, there was a youth and beginner race.

A 50/50 rubber duck race benefitting Backpack Buddies brought a small flock of yellow duckies to the Kanawha River. Tickets for the event, which was promoted by Putnam County Tourism, were sold online as well as in person. The winner of the race was Patricia Babin.

The Watersports Weekend culminated with the Paddle Royale, which featured three different categories – Youth, Novice/Beginner, and Pro Am. Youth Paddle winners were Parker Hanna – 1st Place; Ava Young – 2nd Place; and Marlee Young – 3rd Place. Novice/Beginner winners were Zach Phillips – 1st Place; Sophia Young – 2nd Place; and Abby Phillips, 3rd Place. Pro Am winners included Evan Young – 1st Place; Doug Kirk – 2nd Place; Carter Young – 3rd Place; Shelly Kirk – 4th Place; and Jimbo Navy, 5th Place.

This is the fifth year that the Winfield Watersports Weekend has been held. The event is hosted by Appalachian Boarding Company and the City of Winfield.