The Silver Lining Foundation, dedicated to “providing respectful and equal access to cost-free breast health testing” in the community, is hosting its biggest fundraiser of the year—the 6th Annual Paddle Palooza, July 11 to 13, on beautiful Flathead Lake, in Polson, Montana.
On hand will be more than 200 paddlers from around the world, including the Pacific Northwest, California, Arizona, Florida, Canada, and as far away as Maui and Tahiti. Together, they will celebrate the healing power of water and the medicinal power of exercise, with a deep gratitude to the local indigenous tribes of the Flathead Nation, whose territory includes this pristine lake.
“Each day is a gift,” say the race sponsors, and that spirit of gratitude will permeate this event, which includes the ARE TAHITI V1 and V6 500-meter sprint challenge, V6 races, and more. V6 Matahinas will be provided by sponsor ARE TAHITI.
ARE Tahiti is truly grateful to be part of this event, not only hosting the ARE Sprint Challenge V1 and V6, Friday, July 11, but also providing four outrigger clinics, July 9 and July 10. These workshops are part of ARE Tahiti’s ongoing commitment to growing the sport of outrigger paddling with paddling clinics led by world-class paddlers—in this case, current IVF world sprint champion, Iloha Eychenne.
Join us for the Opening Ceremony of the ARE Sprint/Paddle Palooza weekend Friday evening, July 11, at 6 p.m., at the Polson Fairgrounds, where Maui’s Uncle Kimokeo will provide the ceremonial blessing. After that, enjoy a weekend of races, celebration, and a true spirit of community. And don’t forget to buy tickets to win an ARE TAHITI V1 MAKO rudderless canoe, donated by ARE TAHITI.
Visit 2025 Paddlefest Montana for event details, to purchase raffle tickets, or to make a donation to the Foundation for their worthy cause. Or sign up for an exclusive outrigger clinic with Tahiti’s Iloha Eychenne. Visit www.aretahiti.com to learn more about ARE TAHITI canoes or ShopOutrigger.com, your ultimate destination for everything a paddler might need, including canoes, clothing, and accessories.
Flathead Lake is located at 320 Regatta Road, Polson, Montana.
