Wappingers Creek Water Derby
Join us as spectators to enjoy watching paddlers charge down Wappingers Creek at the 51st Water Derby!
The annual Wappingers Creek Water Derby is an 8 mile canoe and kayak race down the scenic Wappingers Creek. Hosted by the Veterans Sportsmens Association in partnership with the Aquatic Explorers Scuba Club. Originally started in 1970 by WWII Submariners, this annual race along the Wappingers Creek from Pleasant Valley to Poughkeepsie is returning for its 51st Run.
WHO: Open to the public (for spectating)
Tickets for participation are available on the Veterans Sportsmens Association website
WHEN: Saturday, April 25 @ 9 AM - 6 PM ET
(Previously planned for January 29 but rescheduled due to weather)
WHERE: Pleasant Valley Recreation Center
1554 Main St, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569, USA
Note: Guardian Revival is not a host or official partner of this event. We are sharing it as a local community event that we will be attending and have tables with GR representatives and information about our programs & events. Hope to see you there!
About the Organizers
The Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) has once again teamed up with the Aquatic Explorers Scuba Club (AESC) to bring back the annual spring Wappingers Creek Water Derby for 2026.
The Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) runs multiple Veterans Sporting Events in both New York and Pennsylvania. Our Three Core Values: Protect. Defend. Honor.
The Aquatic Explorers Scuba Club (AESC) is dedicated to promoting and protecting the sport of scuba diving. It provides members with a network of recreational and professional divers to share experiences, learn from, and dive with.
Guardian Revival
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
Our Programs
Peer Services | Individual & group peer support for guardians by guardians
Dwyer of Putnam County | Events, information, and resources for Putnam County veterans
Another Summit | Outdoor adventures — walking, hiking, backpacking, paddling, and fly fishing
Boots & Paws | Providing dogs for the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship
Encore | Opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music
Homefront | Support & resources for military & first responder families
RISE | Strength & resilience through fitness & wellness