Original Greenway Challenge Organizers

History

The UniBank Blackstone River Valley Greenway Challenge is the result of a four-day paddle known as "Expedition 2000!"

Expedition 2000 started at the headwaters of the Blackstone River in Worcester, MA and traveled to the mouth of the Blackstone River in Pawtucket, RI. Organized by the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission and its many partners, the Expedition highlighted the wonderful recreational qualities of the river, and the “blueways” and “greenways” connected to it.

It focused great attention on how far the river had come in its turnaround from years of neglect and environmental degradation. Fish, birds and wildlife had returned to the river along with the environment that supports them. The participants found a wild river in the heart of the Blackstone Valley. A wide cross section of federal, state and local officials, advocates and environmentalists joined the Expedition that year and many concluded that it would be great if the Expedition, or something like it, could happen every year. 

Recognizing the opportunity for a terrific event, a group emerged that was willing and able to plan the first Blackstone River Valley Greenway Challenge that included cycling, paddling and running. There were three priorities: 1) the event would expose participants to as much of the natural beauty of the valley as possible, 2) the river and the new and growing Blackstone River Bikeway would /always be a part of the course, and 3) historic sites and points of interest would be included along the course.

The Steering Committee is proud that these traditions continue in 2010. We strive to provide new challenges each year  to teams and individuals alike. It's always a good opportunity to continue to grow the “Adventure Race Like No Other!”