Down South Paddle Battle
Down South Paddle Battle
Paddle South Freestyle Tour
March 27-29, 2026
The Paddle South Freestyle Tour makes a new stop in 2026 with the Montgomery Whitewater Down South Paddle Battle. As the tour’s only pumped whitewater park venue, it delivers a competition that’s just as exciting to watch as it is to paddle.
Engineered waves and holes create consistent features for freestyle surf runs where athletes throw their best tricks for the judges.
The Down South Paddle Battle welcomes competitors of all ages and skill levels, from first-time freestyle competitors to seasoned pros chasing series points.
Spend the weekend with us watching freestyle kayakers perform their best tricks, or sign up to join- in on the action. Either way, we cant wait to see you outside!
Friday, March 27th
PADDLE WITH THE PROS
Paddle with the Pros gives paddlers the chance to share the water with professional kayakers and experienced athletes. Pros will spend time in key whitewater features demonstrating tricks, surfing techniques, and advanced moves while offering tips and encouragement to anyone who wants to join them on the water.
FLATWATER DEMOS
Flatwater Demos offer a relaxed opportunity to try out new paddling gear in a calm-water setting. Participants can test kayaks, paddles, and other equipment while connecting with manufacturers and experienced paddlers.
Early Access Training
March 25 & 26, 2026
Early Access Practice Sessions allow participants to get on the water before competition begins to familiarize themselves with the features, dial in lines, and practice tricks.
$15 per day/per boater
Freestyle Competition Registration
REGISTRATION INCLUDES
March 27th
Open Practice, Paddle with the Pros, & Athlete Mixer
March 28th
Prelims & Semi-final Competitions
March 29th
Final Competition & Awards
$30 per athlete/per entry
Additional Age Category Entries $30
Onsite camping is included for registrants. Additional campers are $20 each.
Please note that camping is offered for special events only.
Bring a Chair & a Friend!
This competition is spectator-friendly!
The reliable features and clear sightlines make it easy to follow the action, compare runs, and experience the energy of freestyle kayaking up close.
COMPETITION RULES
Divisional Points: Additional points can be awarded for Cadet and Intermediate Divisions.
Multiple Divisions: Athletes can enter multiple divisions, but will need to pay additional fees established by each event location.
Tour Qualification: Athletes must enter 4 of the 5 events to be included in the points for the Paddle South Freestyle Tour overall standings.
Cuts: Prelims for all divisions will cut to 5 athletes, UNLESS there are 16 or more athletes, in which case the cut will be to 10 for a Semi-Final round.
Montgomery Event Exception: For the Montgomery event, due to feature availability, we might be using a Rodeo Format and scoring based on best scoring trick or best link of tricks.
Rides: 2 rides, 1 count.