Before the first light touches the water, Ross's Landing already buzzes with energy. Paddles clatter, racers line up ready to launch their boards & kayaks, and anticipation ripples through the crowd. The still morning air gives way to splashing paddles and cheers as one after another launches into the Tennessee River Gorge. From the starting line at Ross's Landing, racers power through 31 exhilarating miles to reach the finish line at Hales Bar Marina & Resort. 

The Challenge Begins: Racing into the Gorge

The first gunshot echoes across Ross's Landing as racers surge forward, slicing through the water as the sun rises behind them. The race bursts into motion in three heats, each pulsing with its own energy. At 8:30 AM, Heat 1 launches and stand-up paddleboards, prone boards, wide kayaks, and C-class canoes lead the charge. Ten minutes later, six-person outrigger crews push off, padding in perfect synchronization. By 9:00 AM, the final heat storms the river: surf skis, tandem surf skis, and all other outrigger canoes cut their own path through the gorge.

We asked about the atmosphere at the starting line, Dana Thomason Bittenbender, an eleven time racer from Atlanta said, "We had a beautiful start, we became one paddle in that moment and took off from the start!"

From the first paddle stroke, racers take the Tennessee River head-on, powering through every bend the gorge throws at them mile by mile. The water tests their strength, the distance tests their focus, and the hours ahead demand pure determination from start to finish. 

Stories from the River: The Journey Between Start and Finish

As paddlers move through forests ablaze with fall colors, herons wheel overhead and the occasional splash of a fish reminds racers they share the river with its' wild residents. At popular vantage points like Suck Creek, spectators pause to watch and cheer, offering encouragement along the way. These moments of support carry racers toward the final miles and keeps energy high as they near the finish. 

For many, these moments are just as memorable as the finish. The rhythm of paddling, the rush of currents, and the ever-changing scenery create a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration that only the Tennessee River can offer. Every bend and turn become a story that makes Chattajack unforgettable. 

The Finish Line: Triumph on the Tennessee River

After 31 grueling miles, the roar of the crowd grows louder as paddlers round the final corner. The finish line at Hales Bar comes into view as racers push through the last stretch, muscles burning, but spirits soaring. Spectators cheer wildly while shaking cowbells and waving signs, creating a surge of energy that carries paddlers to the finish. 

For some, it's their very first time completing Chattajack, a moment of pure pride and accomplishment. For veterans who have returned year after year, it's a triumph long in the making, finally earning the coveted belt buckle after five consecutive races. When asked what Chattajack means to her, Bittenbender says, "This year my team from Hanohano came to help me get my 10th year buckle! For some of our six, it was their first Chattajack. That brought me joy introducing them to our East coast paddle community and it helped when we won!"

Each finish tells a story of grit, determination, and the unforgettable rush of conquering the Tennessee River Gorge. 

Be Part of the Action - On the Water or Behind the Scenes

Chattajack racer registration opens at midnight on May 1st and spots disappear fast! Set your alarms and be ready when the clock strikes twelve. This event also depends on its incredible volunteers, information from 2025's race can be found here. These guidelines are subject to change. Volunteers not only get an inside look at race day but also receive priority registration for next year's race, a perk you won't want to miss. Stay in the loop by following Chattajack's official Facebook page and checking their website for updates, announcements, and all things race-day related. Chattajack 2026 will be held on October 24, 2026 and you don't want to miss it!

Giving Back to the Gorge

Beyond the competition, Chattajack is deeply rooted in giving back to the very place that makes it possible - the Tennessee River Gorge. Each year, the race supports the Tennessee River Gorge Trust (TRGT), an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the 27,000-acre gorge. Sponsors contribute items to a raffle with 100% of proceeds going directly to the TRGT. Others offer direct donations, ensuring the rivers' ecosystem continues to thrive for future generations of paddlers. 

In 2025, Chattajack raised an impressive $26,924 for the cause, a collective effort made possible by sponsors like BARK, ARE, Epic, Flying Fish, QuickBlade, Hippostock, and Quintaliza. It's a reminder that while the race celebrates endurance and strength, its impact reaches far beyond the finish line. 

A 🎶 Note about the author and Visit Chattanooga's partnership with UTC

This blog was written by a student in Exploring Chattanooga, a Communication class at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. These students are helping document, define, and share the diverse cultural experiences scene that can be found in the Scenic City. Find more student-written blogs about local cultural experiences here.