2016 Derby du Veneon – Racing in Paradise

Blessed with warm weather and blue bird sky, the 2016 edition of the Derby du Veneon was one to remember. With a high elevation put-in at 2000 meters, temperatures and weather matter on this river. It’s not rare to see snow at this time of the year so when organizers and paddlers saw temperatures rising to a daytime high of over 25 degrees, they knew water levels would be just perfect. And perfect they were.

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The Veneon is one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, yet remains quite unknown. It flows in a pristine valley near Grenoble, France – a rare gem to have so close to a major city.

The event consists of two races; slalom in the morning and a long race in the afternoon. Each team is made up of three paddlers. Race organizers created the event to mimic a day on the river with friends. Kayakers paddle in groups because it’s fun and it’s safe. Racing as a team adds an extra challenge and creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and competition but doubles as safety, allowing this race to exist in such a remote river.

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Nearly 150 paddlers attended the event this year, with 36 competitors. For the third time, a team of downriver racers calling themselves Happydesc took the trophy. The team also won a trip to Colombia with French paddling phenom Jules Domine and his river operation, Expedition Colombia.

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The event wraps up with a rowdy, open-air party in the evening. The annual event takes place each September and this grassroots event showcases a piece of whitewater paradise. Don’t miss next year’s race!

For full results and more info go to Derbyduveneon.com.

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