Scott Mansker and Russ Payzant started the Missouri American Water MR340 in 2006 with just 16 paddlers. The pair quickly formed the organization Rivermiles, LLC, which organized and hosted the race for its first 15 years. The largest MR340 was in 2018 with 433 boats. Missouri River Relief has been part of the safety boat team since 2008.

The MR340 is a serious test. Racers have just 88 hours to cover 340 miles, starting in Kansas City, Kansas, and finishing in St. Charles, Missouri. The Missouri River is a powerful force of nature, with strong currents, unpredictable weather, and even the occasional whirlpool. Imagine battling these challenges while fatigue, hunger, and sleep deprivation start to set in. 

The MR340 isn’t just about physical strength. The MR340 is a mental and emotional marathon that challenges racers to their utmost capabilities. They face their deepest fears and doubts, experiencing hallucinations, moments of despair, and even feelings of euphoria as they push through the pain and exhaustion.

According to riverrelief.org; .rivermixer.com