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: northforkchampionship@gmail.com
become a sponsor
presenting Sponsor
Visit Idaho serves to inspire travelers to visit and experience Idaho’s diverse, unique beauty, western culture, history, and outdoor adventure opportunities through engaging, helpful tips, information, and resources. Tourism is Idaho’s third-largest Industry, and Visit Idaho is committed to growing the state’s economy through targeted, impactful promotions. Go to VisitIdaho.org to plan your vacation.
platinum Sponsors
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.
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. show that we focus on more than just river supplies, and more than just this corner of the world.
Turtlebox speakers are built for life on the go, combining rugged durability with rich, immersive sound. Designed to keep up with every adventure, they’re waterproof, shock-resistant, and ready for anything—from backyard hangouts to beach days or road trips. More than just speakers, Turtlebox delivers music that moves with you, making every moment louder, brighter, and more fun. With a focus on quality, portability, and user-friendly design, Turtlebox ensures your soundtrack never stops. Trusted by outdoor enthusiasts, families, and music lovers alike, Turtlebox speakers turn every space into a celebration, wherever life takes you.
gold Sponsors
Founded by a dory boat captain on the Colorado River in 1983, Chums is about the guides, dirtbags, river rats, and weekend warriors. Our community is the early risers and go-getters dedicated to everything from chasing trout in faraway lands to brewing the perfect cup of camp coffee deep in the backcountry. We’ve been producing innovative outdoor products built for adventure for more than 40 years, and we’re looking forward to many more decades of fishing, paddling, camping, hiking, and hanging with our Chums.
The Southwest Idaho Travel Association (SWITA) is the regional destination management organization dedicated to promoting tourism and supporting the visitor economy across Southwest Idaho. Representing communities from Boise to Idaho City and beyond, SWITA works to inspire travel, strengthen local businesses, and enhance quality of place through strategic marketing, partnerships, and sustainable destination development. Through programs, events, and collaborative initiatives, SWITA helps drive overnight visitation, economic impact, and community pride. SWITA is proud to support experiences like the Northfork Challenge that showcase the outdoor recreation, culture, and hospitality that make Southwest Idaho unique.
silver 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!
St. Luke’s Health System is an Idaho-based, not-for-profit, integrated health system. We are guided by our vision to be the community’s most trusted partner in health. By delivering care to patients, connecting care through our health network and funding care through St. Luke’s Health Plan, we work every day to fulfill our mission to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve. Learn more at stlukesonline.org.
Founded in 1983, 4Corners Riversports is the Southwest’s premier river shop. Located in Durango, CO, on the banks of the Animas River, we are a full-service retail store and paddle school. The shop provides the region with kayaks, IKs, canoes, rafts, catarafts, fishing craft, SUPs, rentals, gear, accessories, and more. The American Canoe Association-accredited Paddle School offers classes for all ages and levels from beginner to advanced, as well as multi-day and international kayak adventures. Whatever the adventure or vessel, 4Corners Riversports loves helping folks get on the water. SYOTR!
Calleva’s innovative outdoor education & adventure programs get people outdoors for experiences that promote personal growth, community, skill building & a healthy lifestyle.
Werner Paddles began with Werner and Martha Furrer’s first kayaking adventure together in 1955. With limited gear available, Werner Sr built his first kayak in 1959 and subsequently his first paddle in 1965. With a growing family, each member needed a kayak and paddle, and the Furrer garage became a workshop to deliver the gear. From that humble beginning grew a company of dedicated craftsmen and women who bring passion, commitment, and pride to work every single day.
Today, Werner Paddles takes an engineering and technological approach to design. Function, ergonomics, durability, and beauty are key requirements for the best paddling experience. Werner Paddles takes pride in handcrafting products in the U.S., minimizing waste, caring for their people, and giving back to the local community. Whether you spend the day paddling on flat water with your family or rely on your paddle in Class V rapids, we continuously innovate to deliver Ultimate Paddle Performance.
Nestled at the gateway between the valley and the mountains, Valley View Chevron has proudly served as a trusted stop for travelers and a cornerstone for our small-town community. As a local, family-owned and operated business, we’ve built more than just a gas station—we’ve created a one-stop shop that carries the widest selection of goods in the area, designed to meet the needs of every visitor and neighbor who walks through our doors.
Whether you’re heading north into the wilderness or south toward the city, we are honored to be the last stop before the journey and the first to welcome you home. More than just fuel and convenience, we believe in fueling people. We’re committed to serving our town, supporting our employees, and giving back to the communities that travel Highway 55.
Founded in 2003, Jackson Kayak was built on a foundation of innovation, inclusivity, and community. From their factory in Sparta, Tennessee, the Jackson team has spent over two decades pushing the limits of design to ensure every product reflects their internal motto: “Build It Like Your Own.” Whether it’s through elite whitewater designs or a commitment to making the sport accessible to all, Jackson Kayak’s mission is to help the community pursue joy on the water.
World Class Academy is an accredited private high school that combines academics, athletics, travel, and cultural immersion. It is a school that recognizes that learning and passion must go hand in hand. It is a school that pushes alternative education to new heights with a firm belief that quality education comes from interacting with the world around us. Learn more at worldclassacademy.com
IR started in 1997 on a home sewing machine in our basement, and just a few years later, we were running a small sewing factory in a renovated high school. Since then, we’ve grown a lot, and we now work in great factories all over the world. We are a time-trusted, industry leader in paddlesports producing the highest quality technical gear. We’ve never forgotten where we came from, nor have we lost our passion for making great gear on our own. We continue to produce small batches of experimental gear and clothing, completely in-house in Hood River, Oregon.
Celebrating 55 years of research and development, creating award winning designs, and supporting world-class expeditions. We always have and always will be by Enthusiasts, for Enthusiasts. Developing the most technologically advanced materials, using industry leading processing methods and highly detailed quality control systems, means we can produce truly world class kayaks and reduce our impact on the environment. From kids to champions, we want everyone to enjoy our sport, and have as much fun out there as we do.
Stio was founded in 2011 in Jackson, Wyoming by longtime locals living the mountain life. We are skiers, bikers, climbers, hikers, anglers and paddlers. Time spent outside on trails, in rivers and on summits inspires everything we create. Designed, developed and tested at the base of the Tetons, Stio was founded to create premium, technical apparel for mountain athletes so we can all do more of what we love.
Idaho River Sports has been serving the Boise area since 1987. We offer a variety of rentals, whether you are heading out on a 3 day excursion or just looking to paddle up at the lake ~ we will get you geared up and ready to go. You can always expect us to pump the stoke and bring the vibes anywhere we go. Bringing our like minded community together is what our crew enjoys most. We are beyond stoked that the North Fork Championship is back and that we get to continue our partnership after years of crossing our fingers. Expect to see a few of our athletes out there!
bronze Sponsors
Outdoor Exchange is an outdoor gear and clothing consignment shop dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible, affordable and sustainable. Founded by a true, outdoor enthusiast, our shop was born from a desire to lower the cost of entry and reduce waste in the outdoor industry. From night skiing at Bogus Basin, to climbing the Black Cliffs and road-tripping in search of adventure- our knowledgeable staff lives the lifestyle we support. Outdoor Exchange is your place to buy and sell gear, learn from experience, and connect with the local outdoor community.
Cali Collective is a paddlesports school run by coaches who are still out there pushing themselves — racing, traveling, exploring new rivers, and keeping their skills sharp where it actually matters. Based in California, we offer whitewater kayaking, packrafting, SUP, and sea kayaking clinics across the Western US, Europe, and Chile, all with a modern approach to safety and progression. Our team is made up of relevant athletes who teach from lived skill, not outdated theory. Through our nonprofit partner, Riverbound, we also work to expand access and river stewardship for underserved communities. Wherever you are in your paddling journey, we help you level up with clarity and intention.
Nobdody’s flat brim skull caps are designed and tested in the Columbia River Gorge. Co-founders Sam and Sarina set out to create an insulating hat for cold water kayaking and surfing designed to keep the wearer’s head warm and protected from the sun. Nobdody’s now offers full storm hoods for extra cold days, sun hoods for warm water and spring skiing, and our original cap with updated colors and design.
Liquidlogic isn’t just about making kayaks — it’s about creating moments on the water. Founded by paddlers, we design every hull with purpose, heart, and firsthand experience. From charging whitewater and carving waves to exploring new stretches and drifting into calm evenings, we know the thrill of one more run, the joy of play, and the importance of control, stability, and performance when it matters most. Whether you’re taking on hard rapids, gearing up for a crossover adventure, or keeping it simple on the lake, Liquidlogic builds kayaks for the full playground. Made in the USA.
Wilderness River Outfitters is a family owned and operated company based in Salmon, Idaho. The Tonsmeire family has been running adventure style rafting and kayaking trips since 1972. WRO guides are experienced, fun and professional. We offer river expeditions in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Alaska and Canada on some of the best wilderness rivers in North America! Our multi-day trips range from class III family style adventures to more exciting high adventure expeditions.
