2010 MR 340 Test Run

Kyle and I launched “My Dianna” from the Kaw Point ramp in Kansas City, Kansas yesterday morning with the downtown Kansas City, Missouri skyline in the background. The launch ramp was nearly underwater and what wasn’t under water was covered in mud due to the high waters.

Once we were out in the Kaw the water was smooth but at the confluence we encountered our first of many whirlpools and some rough water. The current was moving fast and we quickly lost sight of the Kansas City skyline. The water was dingy but mostly debris free. The high water has cleaned every thing out except for the mud left behind.

We did face some stiff headwinds (nothing comparable to the Washington, Mo headwinds of last year) from time to time but all in all it was a very pleasant trip. While coasting with the current we could run 4 to 5 mph and with very little effort we could attain 7mph. Our average speed for the 30 mile trip was 6.5 mph and our maximum was over 12 mph.

Our canoe was the only craft on the river other than a sand barge which put up a nice wake for us to navigate. It will be much different on July 27 when 340 boats depart Kaw Point.

Chad was our shuttle driver and he was waiting for us at Ft. Osage where we landed on the mud covered boat ramp. It was a smooth ride and if the river is as fast for the MR 340 that dragon boat may get up to 25 mph while many of the others will set personal best for the 340 mile race.