Paddleboarders and raft builders wanted for Olney Riverfest 2026

Could your club become the first Olney Riverfest Paddleboard Champions?

Organisers of Olney Riverfest 2026 are calling on paddleboard clubs, paddling groups and individual paddleboard enthusiasts across Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas to enter the brand-new Riverfest Paddleboard Race taking place on Sunday 5th July 2026.

The race will form part of this year's Olney Riverfest celebrations and promises a fun, competitive and memorable day on the water, with paddlers battling it out for the honour of becoming the first-ever Olney Riverfest Paddleboard Champions.

Whether you're a seasoned racer, a recreational paddler or part of a local SUP club looking for a new challenge, organisers would love to hear from you.

"We know there are some fantastic paddleboard communities across the region and we'd love to see them represented at Riverfest," said Jenny Luckin, Lead Organiser of the event. "This is a chance to enjoy some friendly competition, support a great community event and perhaps take home the inaugural title."

Calling All Raft Builders

If paddleboarding isn't your thing, perhaps you fancy taking on the Riverfest Raft Race.

Organisers are also seeking teams willing to design, build and race their own homemade rafts along the River Great Ouse.

The competition is open to friends, families, businesses, community groups, sports clubs and anyone with a creative streak and a sense of adventure.

Prizes will be awarded in four categories:

• Men's Winners

• Female Winners

• Mixed Team Winners

• Most Entertaining Raft

The Most Entertaining Raft category is expected to be one of the highlights of the day, with organisers encouraging teams to think creatively and bring plenty of personality to the water.

Whether your raft is built for speed, laughter or pure spectacle, there's a category for everyone.

A Day to Remember

Olney Riverfest attracts visitors from across the region and combines family entertainment, activities on and around the river, live performances, food and drink, and a packed programme of attractions throughout the weekend.

With the addition of the Paddleboard Race and Raft Race, organisers are hoping to make 2026 the biggest and most entertaining Riverfest yet.

Interested in Entering?

Paddleboard clubs, paddling groups, businesses, organisations and individuals interested in entering either event are encouraged to get in touch with the Riverfest team.

For more information, or to enter a raft or paddleboard, visit:
https://theolneygroup.org/riverfest-sunday-raft-race-2026/

Olney Riverfest 2026 is proudly sponsored by Jarden Vets, Olney's Independent Veterinary Practice.