Training for a few of the die-hard teams begin as early as January and practice in Newport's Back Bay area. The official practice period on the Rivers of America begin in mid-July. Practice also includes clinics in how to steer.

There is a dedicated group of volunteers that bring the races together. They are at the park by 4am on race days to set the course up, organize the teams and run the races.

Today's races were the sprints. Two teams race each other in time trials. There is a camera set up at the finish line in case of a 'photo finish'.

There are three competition levels, Mens, Womens and Co-Ed. The person who steers can be either male or female on all teams. Four teams in each division will go on to the finals being held on Thursday, August 13th.

The first place team for today's Sprints is "Pier Pressure" from DCA.