Downwind Elite Battles on the Columbia River

The Gorge Ultra Distance once again showcased why the Columbia River Gorge remains one of the world’s premier venues for downwind stand-up paddling. Organized by Bodie Von Allmen and Stoke on the Water, the 17-mile race attracted one of the strongest domestic fields seen in recent years, with many of America’s top downwind paddlers lining up for an intense battle from start to finish.

According to race organizer and runner-up Bodie Von Allmen, this year’s event featured the deepest level of competition he has experienced in a U.S. downwind race in years.

“The Gorge Ultra Distance was the most competitive race in the U.S. that I have participated in for years. There is still nobody out there better in good downwind conditions than the one and only Connor Baxter.”

Connor Baxter Dominates the Gorge Once Again

True to his reputation as one of the sport’s greatest downwind paddlers, Connor Baxter once again proved why he remains the benchmark in open-water racing. The Hawaiian crossed the finish line first after mastering the Columbia River’s famous wind swell and river bumps over the demanding 17-mile course.

Baxter was followed roughly two minutes later by race organizer Bodie Von Allmen, while the battle for the final podium position went right down to the wire. Daniel Senoglu narrowly edged out Danny Ching in an exciting sprint for third place.

Men’s Top 5

1. Connor Baxter
2. Bodie Von Allmen
3. Daniel Senoglu
4. Danny Ching
5. Jake Portwood

April Zilg Leads Strong Women’s Field

The women’s race was equally competitive, with April Zilg claiming another impressive victory against a stacked field of experienced downwind racers. Kim Barnes finished second, while Stephanie Shidler completed the podium in third. The East Coast paddling community was well represented, placing three athletes inside the top four.

Women’s Top 4

1. April Zilg
2. Kim Barnes
3. Stephanie Shidler
4. Michelle Higdon

Battle of Bingen Decides the Final Sprint

After 17 miles of tactical downwind racing, competitors still had one final challenge waiting. The Battle of Bingen sprint to the finish provided an exciting finale, rewarding those who still had speed left after nearly two hours of racing.

Reflecting on his victory, Connor Baxter praised both the event and his equipment:

“That’s a wrap. Super fun event in da Hood. Conditions were fun. Big thanks to Bodie Von Allmen and Stoke on the Water for an epic event. My new Starboard All Star was working like an absolute beast in these river bumps. Paired with the Velocity paddle, it made an unstoppable combination. Stoked to take the win in the Ultra Distance and first in the Battle of Bingen after grinding for 17 miles.”

A Showcase for American Downwind Racing

With a field featuring names such as Connor Baxter, Bodie Von Allmen, Danny Ching, Daniel Senoglu, Jake Portwood, and April Zilg, the Gorge Ultra Distance once again demonstrated the strength of U.S. downwind paddling.

The Columbia River Gorge continues to provide one of the most unique race venues in the world, combining powerful river swell, consistent winds, and technical reading of the bumps. As downwind paddling continues to grow in popularity, events like the Gorge Ultra Distance remain an important proving ground for some of the sport’s best athletes.

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