The Cheat race will take place in the Cheat River Canyon, over the 10.1mile stretch of whitewater from the town of Albright to the Jenkinsburg bridge. The degree of difficulty of the whitewater varies due to rainfall. During the past 5 years, water levels have ranged from 2' to 3.75'. A unique aspect of this race is that it employs a mass start.
All contestants begin at the same time, competing head to head.
While the beginning can be a little crowded, the paddlers usually break off into smaller groups after a mile or so. If you are new to the river or to racing, this type of start allows you to bring a friend to race with or mix in with other boaters. The race itself usually takes between 1 to 2 hours. Safety boaters will be stationed at major rapids. For those who race or help out, vehicles, courtesy of Glenn Miller Shuttle Service and Mountain Streams, will be there to haul you and your boat back to the starting point.