Jen McKenna Paddle and Run 4.0

Welcome to the 2024 edition of the Jen McKenna Paddle and Run 4.0. Join us for this great event experience. The Jen McKenna Paddle and Run will return to its location at Higgens Point. Athletes will begin just east of the Higgens Point boat launch and paddle around Higgens Point into Blue Creek Bay to the turn around and double back to the paddle exit. Paddle distance is approximately 1.6 miles. Then, runners head along the Centennial Trail to the turn around and double back before a short trail run and finish at the Higgens Point Park at the end of the Centennial Trail.  Run distance is approximately 4 miles.  This is an individual or 2-person team (1 paddler, 1 runner) event.  Awards will be given for the top 3 men and women and top team. Participants will also enjoy a post-race event of food and beverages.
Jen loved the outdoors, including running and kayaking. She had cystic fibrosis, but she did not let the disease define her or what she was able to do in life.  In February 2019, Jen and her family relocated to the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill to wait for a double lung transplant.  She received a set on May 23, but due to cystic fibrosis-related complications, Jen McKenna passed away on June 27, 2019, at the age of 41. Proceeds from the event benefit All Heart Infusion of Spokane and Coeur dAlene.