Race On The River, An El Paso Tradition Returns

The return of the ‘Great River Raft Race.’ An El Paso tradition makes a comeback with a big splash on Father’s Day. The one-time popular event back in the 1970s and early 80s was put on hold by organizers in 1984 due to levee repairs and river regulations.

“My father used to race in the River Raft Race all the time and by the time I was able to start participating in it they cancelled so I’ve been waiting for this day for 28 years,” says Christopher Thompson, a sailor with the U.S. Navy.

Dozens of borderland residents hit the low-lying waters of the Rio Grande in El Paso’s upper valley, and for about three miles raced to the finish line.

Event organizer Brad Dubow says the event is to encourage residents to take part in water recreation here in the Sun City.

“When some people want to make something happen and a lot of people work hard to get it done, this is the result,” says Dubow.

Dubow says he hopes the event continues to be a Father’s Day tradition for borderland families. Those who gathered to enjoy the race say they are already looking forward to next year.