Sponsors
The North Fork Championship is the biggest event in whitewater, and making it happen is no small feat. From insurance and highway control to creating an unforgettable experience for racers and spectators, the logistics are complex and the costs significant. We truly could not put on this event without the support of our sponsors and community.
We are always excited to collaborate with new businesses and organizations whose values align with the spirit of the North Fork Championship. If you’re interested in supporting this world-class event, please reach out for donations and sponsorship opportunities at: carli.d.beisel@gmail.com.
Platinum Sponsors
The initials “NRS” stand for Northwest River Supplies. When Bill Parks started the company in Eugene, Oregon in 1972, his primary customers were from around the Pacific North West, and they were mostly fellow river enthusiasts. At the time, the name explained perfectly what our company was about. Over the years, as our employees and customers started branching out into other areas of paddlesports, our company did too. These days, “Northwest River Supplies” doesn’t tell the full story of who we are. Our enthusiasm for paddlesports has grown to include lakes and oceans, and our products are used by paddlers in every part of the world. We shortened our name simply to NRS, to show that we focus on more than just river supplies, and more than just this corner of the world.
Rendezvous River Sports is a premier paddlesports outfitter and community hub based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Since 1993, they have inspired adventure on rivers, lakes, and whitewater through expert instruction, guided trips, and a carefully curated selection of top-quality gear. Their passionate team of paddlers fosters a deep respect for rivers and the natural world, helping everyone from first-time kayakers to seasoned explorers build skills and confidence. The Jackson Hole Kayak Club, is also operated out of Rendezvous River Sports, and has trained some of the sport’s top athletes. You’ll see several former Kayak Clubbers launching off the NFC ramp next year—continuing Rendezvous’s legacy of excellence and river stewardship.
Gold Sponsors
Idaho Rivers United (IRU) is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring Idaho’s rivers, fish, and clean water for generations to come. Founded in 1990, IRU quickly joined forces with Friends of the Payette and the Idaho Whitewater Association—grassroots groups that successfully halted a hydropower project on the North Fork of the Payette River. That pivotal victory cemented IRU’s commitment to defending free-flowing rivers statewide. Today, IRU unites river enthusiasts, anglers, and conservationists to champion wild and scenic protections, salmon and steelhead recovery, and sustainable water management—ensuring Idaho’s waterways remain wild and accessible for both wildlife and recreation. The return of the North Fork Championship would not have been possible without IRU’s guidance, support, and fiscal sponsorship.
The Great Falls Foundation, established in 2015, was created to safeguard the legendary Great Falls Race and Potomac River Festival and ensure these iconic events thrive for years to come. Since then, the foundation has expanded its expertise to support and insure small whitewater races across North America, including the Lord of the Fork on the Russell Fork and the Little White Salmon Race. From securing event insurance to streamlining safety protocols to event permitting, the Great Falls Foundation provides the backbone for safe and successful whitewater competitions. The Great Falls Foundation was a vital player in restarting the North Fork Championship. They provided guidance on insurance, nonprofit structure, and legal support. We could not have brought his race back without their help!