Red River PaddleCast, hosted by Brad Friesen, dives into the stories, grit, and river magic behind the Red River Paddle Challenge. Each episode brings you conversations with past, present, and future paddlers, plus the community leaders who help shape our sport. Fans will love the behind‑the‑scenes insights, wild adventure tales, training wisdom, and the shared passion that fuels this growing paddling community.
Sandy Hudson: How a Kids Kayak Built Manitoba's Biggest Paddling Community
In this episode, Sandy Hudson shares how she built Kayak Manitoba from a pandemic side project into a 6,000-member hub, why the simplest gear is often the best gear, and how one book became a go-to guide for anyone wanting to paddle Manitoba.
In this episode:
Why Sandy chose a lightweight youth kayak and how it changed her paddling life.
How Kayak Manitoba grew from 50 members to thousands by focusing on community, not noise.
The best beginner-friendly places to paddle near Winnipeg, including Island Lakes and Harbour View.
What makes launches, river flow, and seasonal conditions matter more than people realize.
Why she wrote How to Kayak Manitoba and how it answers the same questions beginners keep asking.
Brad and Sandy also get into the Red River Paddle Challenge, including what it takes to support paddlers at checkpoint three, why having a strong crew matters, and one unforgettable moment that shows exactly what this community is all about.
If you love paddling, are new to kayaking, or want to find new places and people to paddle with, this episode is packed with useful insight, local knowledge, and genuine inspiration.
Resources & Links:
How to Kayak Manitoba Book (https://www.wildernesssupply.ca/maps-guidebooks-1/sandy-hudson/how-to-kayak-manitoba)
Kayak Manitoba Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayakmanitoba)
Red River Paddle Challenge (https://www.redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Red River Paddle Challenge Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/redriverpaddlechallenge/)
3 Jul 2026
Samantha Page: Beyond the Water – An In-Depth Conversation on Paddling, Racing, and Adventure
In this episode, Samantha Page recounts her lifelong paddle sports journey, memorable trips, and her transition into paddle racing. Her stories highlight the importance of community, passion for wildlife, and balancing fun with competition; perfect for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In this episode:
Samantha’s paddling origins and family trips from canoeing to kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding.
The epic 24-day Mackenzie River canoe trip and planning involved.
Transition from recreational paddling to paddle racing and race experiences including Chattajack and the Red River Paddle Challenge.
Wildlife encounters: bears, orcas, moose, and more.
Tips for paddlers: training, hydration, race strategies, reading water, and safety.
Balancing paddling with running and other endurance activities.
Community efforts: organizing races and encouraging newcomers.
Resources & Links:
Red River Paddle Challenge (https://redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Red River Paddle Challenge Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/redriverpaddlechallenge/)
Kayak Manitoba Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayakmanitoba)
2 Jun 2026
The Power of Perseverance: Elizabeth Ashe’s Kayaking Journey & Red River Paddle Challenge Experience
Discover Elizabeth Ashe's inspiring story of stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing the challenge of kayaking, culminating in her participation in the 2025 Red River Paddle Challenge. This episode highlights her journey from a novice paddler to completing a demanding race, emphasizing resilience, preparation, and community support.
In this episode:
Elizabeth's background and early water experiences, including her first kayak trip at Hopewell Rocks.
Motivations for signing up for her first Paddle Challenge at age 47.
Her training approach and gear choices, including her first kayak from Facebook Marketplace.
The emotional experience of her first race, from nerves to the feeling of accomplishment.
Practical tips on race preparation: gear, nutrition, pacing, and dealing with tough moments.
The importance of community, support, and volunteering in paddling events.
Lessons learned from her race journey and plans for this year's challenge.
Resources & Links:
Wilderness Supply (https://www.wildernesssupply.ca/)
Kayak Manitoba Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayakmanitoba)
Red River Paddle Challenge Website (https://www.redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Red River Paddle Challenge Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/redriverpaddlechallenge/)
19 May 2026
Honouring a Century of Paddling: Les Voyageurs Canoe Race and the Red River Paddle Challenge
Join us as we explore the rich history of paddling in Manitoba, focusing on the legendary Les Voyageurs Canoe Race and its upcoming 100th anniversary. Our guest, John Thompson, shares stories spanning multiple generations, the evolution of paddling gear, and the significance of this historic race in Canadian canoeing culture. Discover how modern events like the Red River Paddle Challenge connect the past with the present and celebrate Manitoba’s paddling heritage.
Main topics:
The origins and history of the Winnipeg Canoe Club and Les Voyageurs Canoe Race.
The race route, rules, and challenges faced by early paddlers, including portages and weight restrictions.
The evolution of paddling gear from wood canvas boats to modern carbon fiber racing shells.
Notable paddlers in history: Bill Brigden, Don Starkell, Norm Crerar, Gib McEachern, and their impact on marathon paddling.
The story behind the iconic race shield, updating it with this year’s winners, and plans for preserving this piece of history.
Traditional rituals and customs, such as the "paddler’s breakfast" involving giant pickles and the opening of canoe season with a floating rum barrel.
The importance of the river as a historical transportation route and its resurgence as a recreational and racing waterway.
The revival of Les Voyageurs Canoe Race as part of the 100th anniversary celebration of Manitoba’s paddling heritage at the 2026 Red River Paddle Challenge.
Resources & Links:
Red River Paddle Challenge & Les Voyageurs Challenge website (https://www.redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Register for the 2026 event (https://www.webscorer.com/register?pid=1&raceid=419381)
Let’s celebrate Manitoba’s paddling heritage and ensure the legacy continues for the next hundred years!
5 May 2026
Paddling for a Purpose: Supporting Cancer Communities through the Never Alone Cancer Foundation
Join us in this episode as we explore the inspiring work of the Never Alone Cancer Foundation in Winnipeg, dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. Learn how community-driven events like dragon boating and creative fundraisers foster strength, hope, and connection among survivors and supporters alike. Thanks to Shonna Newans and Fred Clark for joining me in this episode.
Key Topics Covered:
The origins and mission of the Never Alone Cancer Foundation
Personal survivor stories and their impact on community support
How dragon boating serves as a metaphor and activity for healing and unity
Upcoming community events including dragon boat races, fundraisers, and festivals
Strategies for engaging volunteers and community participation
Creative fundraising ideas, including themed cookies and raffles
Key details about race distances, safety protocols, and event logistics
The ripple effect of healing and support fostered through shared experiences and ceremonies
Links:
Never Alone Cancer Foundation website (https://nacf.ca/)
Join a Dragon Boat Team (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmdGWHBsZ1F1XzdILVJZOVI1ajBTaTdGYUpwQXxBQ3Jtc0tsSkdzNTV4MnN6Z1NSN01nNTU1dF8xY1l6QnpYQVFrNU5QUzk2YlNsMnp5RkNhSU9vNV94SGY5cDdCMTZZenlqM2VZSEk4bExMRG1MZkdxeldfRi1WaWEzUVFDemlNaVBtN0lpNzdCeFFDd1pPLWVnaw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fnacf.ca%2Fevent%2Friver-city-dragon-boat-challenge%2F%3Fevent_date%3D2026-05-30&v=qvikfYMT02k)
Manitoba Paddling Association (https://www.mpa.mb.ca/)
21 Apr 2026
Keith Holm: From Unicycles to Paddleboards - Adventures Across Land and Water
In this episode, we explore the exhilarating world of paddleboarding, racing, and outdoor challenges with Keith Holmes, an avid paddler and outdoor enthusiast. Keith shares his journey from building his own paddleboard to competing in ultra-distance races and exploring winter adventures on fat bikes and unicycles.
Key Topics Covered:
Keith's paddling beginnings: from paddleboard building to race participation
Tips for building a custom paddleboard and the challenges involved
Insights into ultra-distance races like the Red River Paddle Challenge and Mississippi River 145
Cross-disciplinary skills: how sailing experience enhances paddling
Winter sports and adventures: fat biking on lakes, Lake Winnipeg crossings, and ice road adventures
Lessons learned from long-distance races: pacing, nutrition, and gear choices
The community and camaraderie in paddling and winter sports events
Future plans and upcoming races in the paddle community
Join us to be inspired by Keith’s expansive outdoor adventures, from paddleboarding races to winter unicycling across frozen lakes. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just starting out, his stories showcase the thrill of adventure and the community spirit of outdoor sports.
Links:
Red River Paddle Challenge (https://www.redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Two Paddles Canoe & Kayak Races (https://twopaddles.org/)
Blackfish Paddles (https://www.blackfishpaddles.com/)
NSP Paddleboards (https://www.nspsurfboards.com/)
19 Apr 2026
Sean Stoesz: From Whitewater to Ultra Races - How One Paddler Conquers Extreme Challenges
In this episode, Sean Stoesz shares his journey from whitewater kayaking to ultra-distance paddling, including record-breaking challenges on the Red River and experiences paddling with polar bears and navigating ice labyrinths. Tune in for inspiring stories, race insights, and practical advice for paddlers of all levels.
Key topics:
How Sean transitioned from whitewater kayaking to long-distance racing
Highlights from the Yukon River Quest
Record-setting paddle from Emerson to Lockport and lessons learned
Encounters with wildlife, including polar bears in remote locations
Training strategies for ultra-distance and prep for the Yukon 1000
Community growth and evolution of paddling gear in Manitoba
Tips for aspiring racers and community involvement
Links:
Red River Paddle Challenge (https://www.redriverpaddlechallenge.com/)
Two Paddles Canoe & Kayak Races (https://twopaddles.org/)
Yukon River Quest (https://www.yukonriverquest.com/)
Yukon 1000 (https://www.yukon1000.org/)
River Hawk Boat Shop (https://riverhawkboatshop.com/)
Paddling Magazine FKP Article (https://paddlingmag.com/stories/culture/fastest-known-paddle/)
Connect with Sean:
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/prairiepaddler/)
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