Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Virtual Challenge?
A: A Virtual Challenge is an event where people participate in different places and at different times. You have from Monday, May 24th through Monday, September 1, 2025 to complete the challenge and record your results on the Paddle for Our Hudson site.
Q: Do I have to Paddle all my miles in One Day?
A: Absolutely not. Paddle however many miles you would like, on your own time, at any time. While we ask you to pick your goal mileage upon registration (20, 60, or 100 miles), you do not need to paddle all those miles in one sitting. You don't need to paddle to meet your goal at all - although we hope you do! Paddle as many times as you would like. Remember to take care of yourself when paddling, drink water, and wear sunscreen!
Q: What does becoming a fundraiser mean?
A: This year, we're challenging all of our paddlers to raise $150 (or more!) to support our work. After registering for Paddle, don't forget to set up your fundraising page, which will allow your supporters to contribute in recognition of your efforts. You will have a personalized fundraising page that you can customize and share. This allows participants to keep track of their supporters and thank them in the end.
Q: I did not create a fundraiser when I registered. Can I add one now?
A: Yes, under Manage Your Registration, you can add a personal fundraising page. Detailed instructions can be found under How to add a Fundraiser.
Q: My name does not appear under Donate to a Paddler or Top Fundraisers, why is that?
A: There are two possible reasons. Perhaps you registered but did not select Become a Fundraiser. You must create a fundraiser to accept donations specific to your paddling efforts. If you have created a fundraiser and it does not appear, you have checked “Hide from public lists”. You can add a Fundraiser or edit your fundraiser from the Manage Your Registration menu.
Q: Do I have to be in the Hudson Valley to participate in this challenge?
A: Absolutely not! Anyone in the world can participate in this exciting fundraising event. We anticipate that many of the participants of this event will be traveling and exploring new bodies of water throughout the warm summer months. Bring this fundraiser with you on your adventures and keep track of your miles, no matter where you are paddling! Every participant, no matter where they are located, will help further the work of Hudson River Sloop Clearwater.
Q: How do I see who has donated to my fundraiser?
A: When logged in, go to your profile (from the person icon in upper right) and you will see a View Donations option in the Fundraising section. You can also access this through the manage button on your fundraising page. For more details see How to View Donors. Please thank each of your supporters. If you need help accessing this list, email Mariabella at mariabella@clearwater.org.
Q: How do I record my miles?
A: You can log your times and distance directly into Run Signup - view instructions here. We recommend adding your paddling data in as you go to ensure you don't forget to log it!
Q: What type of vessel can I use?
A: You can paddle any way you like to meet your goal! It's your challenge. Whether you are canoeing, kayaking, rowing, or standup paddle boarding, all forms of paddling are welcome in Paddle for Our Hudson. The main goal is to have fun this summer and enjoy the water while raising money for a valuable cause.
Q: What if I don't have my own gear but want to participate?
A: Our friends at participating rental outfitters are offering special discount codes to participants registered with Paddle for Our Hudson! Explore our Participating Kayak and Canoe Rental Outfitters.
Q: Do my miles from paddles before the start date of my challenge count toward my goal?
A: Registration opens April 1st, but you will only be able to enter results for the paddling you do from May 26th to September 1, 2025. Three months is a good chunk of time to get some paddling in!
Q: When I search my name it does not come up to enter virtual results or it says I don't have permission. How do I log miles?
A: You must be logged into the same https://runsignup.com/login account that you registered with to log miles.
Q: How do I support a participant or team?
A: Go to Donate to a Paddler and search for the person or team you wish to support. If they have set up a fundraiser their name will appear as a link (underlined). Click on the link to be taken to their donation page.
Q: How can I share stories or photos from my Paddle for Our Hudson paddles?
A: Submit them via our Paddle for Our Hudson Photo + Story Submission Form! We will be sharing highlights, photos, and stories from our paddlers through e-mail and social media along the way.
Q: A More Details button appears next to participant names. When I click on it, it asks me for an ID and password. What should I do?
A: The More Details button allows a participant to view and update their registration. To view your registration details, you must be logged in to your runsignup.com account.
