origins

The North Fork of the Payette River is steeped in legend—a proving ground for the world’s best extreme whitewater kayakers and a springboard for river advocacy. Since the first modern descent in 1977, it’s powerful rapids have shaped world-class athletes, demanding precision, courage, and endurance.

In 1990, a proposed dam united paddlers and advocacy groups—Idaho Rivers United, Idaho Whitewater Association, and Friends of the Payette—in defending the river’s free-flowing character. Over the past three decades, the North Fork has continued to forge legends and inspire countless stories along its hallowed banks.

Driven by a dream to create the most physically and mentally demanding kayak race in the world, James and Regan Byrd turned that vision into reality on the North Fork’s iconic whitewater. Through hard work and an infectious enthusiasm, they built one of the sport’s most prestigious competitions.

To carry this legacy forward and promote stewardship of the river, a nonprofit was formed for NFC 2026 and beyond. Paddle sports veterans Aaron Pruzan, Cheyenne Rogers, Stan Prichard, and Carli Beisel have joined the Byrds to form a cohesive team dedicated to both the event and the river that makes it possible.

Our mission is to protect the race’s legacy, support the paddling community, and safeguard the free-flowing nature of the North Fork of the Payette. This event exists thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and fellow paddlers. Contributions directly fund the infrastructure and logistics that keep the NFC alive—from safety crews to permits—and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Your support ensures future paddlers will launch off the legendary ramp into Jacob’s Ladder and take on one of the greatest challenges in the sport.