By Sarah Richardson
The popular fundraising event for ALS research, the Red Nose River Float, will return to the Greenbrier River on June 1 this year. The float is held each year as a way to raise funds for the ALS Foundation, the largest non-profit organization in the United States that supports those diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The Red Nose River Float will take place on the beautiful Greenbrier River, starting at the Caldwell Boat Launch and ending at Island Park in Ronceverte. This event is held in honor of Chally Erb, Gary Arbaugh, and all whose lives have been affected by ALS.
This section of the river is approximately six miles of Class II water. This water trail is perfect for beginners. Expect 2.5 hours of float time. Life jackets are required for each person, and there will be safety boaters along the way. Give yourself an hour round trip to set up a shuttle. (Plans are in the works for help with a shuttle but please be prepared to have your own transportation.)
The event page states to arrive at Caldwell between 8 and 11 a.m. on the day of the event to boat drop and to set a shuttle if needed. The launch will be from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will be a pre-float party at The Sportsman Tavern in Ronceverte on May 31, from 5 to 9 p.m. with live music from Deep State and food from The Dawg Haus, Udderly Smooth, and When Pigs Fly BBQ.
To register as an individual or a team, or to sign up as a volunteer, visit https://tinyurl.com/yme3c6mj. Donations can also be made via the link. All proceeds will go directly to the ALS Association.
Follow the event page on Facebook at “2024 Red Nose River Float, a floating fundraiser for ALS” for more information.