For over three decades, One Last Paddle has been a cherished tradition on the Rhode Island race calendar. As it approaches its 35th anniversary, this unique challenge continues to draw paddlers from near and far for an unforgettable day of camaraderie and competition. The journey begins at Ocean Mist in Matunuck, where participants start with a spirited 200-yard footrace along Potters Pond before launching into the water. The exact starting time is contingent on tide conditions but typically falls around 10:30am. After braving seven miles of coastal waters, paddlers will make their way to Mews Tavern in Wakefield for an exuberant awards ceremony. The celebration continues with a lively outdoor party featuring refreshing beverages, tasty food, and live music. Raffle tickets offer additional excitement as prizes are given away throughout the event. All proceeds from One Last Paddle go directly toward supporting the Wounded Warrior Foundation, ensuring that every paddle stroke contributes to a meaningful cause. Participants should note that both the start and finish lines are located at different venues. No transportation is provided between locations, so plan your travel arrangements accordingly. Regardless of weather conditions, this rain-or-shine event promises an invigorating day for all who take part in it. Join us as we honor tradition while looking forward to a theme yet to be announced for the 2026 edition. Braving the waters and sharing the experience with fellow adventurers makes One Last Paddle more than just a race—it's a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and enduring support for those who serve our nation. For over three decades, One Last Paddle has been a cherished tradition on the Rhode Island race calendar. As it approaches its 35th anniversary, this unique challenge continues to draw paddlers from near and far for an unforgettable day of camaraderie and competition. The journey begins at Ocean Mist in Matunuck, where participants start with a spirited 200-yard footrace along Potters Pond before launching into the water. The exact starting time is contingent on tide conditions but typically falls around 10:30am. After braving seven miles of coastal waters, paddlers will make their way to Mews Tavern in Wakefield for an exuberant awards ceremony. The celebration continues with a lively outdoor party featuring refreshing beverages, tasty food, and live music. Raffle tickets offer additional excitement as prizes are given away throughout the event. All proceeds from One Last Paddle go directly toward supporting the Wounded Warrior Foundation, ensuring that every paddle stroke contributes to a meaningful cause. Participants should note that both the start and finish lines are located at different venues. No transportation is provided between locations, so plan your travel arrangements accordingly. Regardless of weather conditions, this rain-or-shine event promises an invigorating day for all who take part in it. Join us as we honor tradition while looking forward to a theme yet to be announced for the 2026 edition. Braving the waters and sharing the experience with fellow adventurers makes One Last Paddle more than just a race—it's a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and enduring support for those who serve our nation.
Races Offered
Double Canoe - Team Captain
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Double Canoe - Team Captain
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Double Canoe - Team Member
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Double Canoe - Team Member
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Double Kayak - Team Captain
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Double Kayak - Team Captain
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Double Kayak - Team Member
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Double Kayak - Team Member
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Paddle Board
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Paddle Board
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Solo Canoe
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Solo Canoe
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Solo Kayak
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Solo Kayak
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
sell
$45.13
Wounded Warrior
Sep 27, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Wounded Warrior
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
00:00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Wakefield.
thermostatTemperature
15.8° / 22.2°
wb_sunnyFeels like
14.6° / 21.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 41m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.2 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.9 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
79.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:26
nightlight
Sunset
18:53
About Wakefield
Learn more about the host city, Wakefield.
Wakefield is a village of the town of South Kingstown in the state of Rhode Island. Settlers came to Wakefield early in the 18th century due to its proximity to the Saugatucket River. In the middle of the 19th century, Kenyon’s Department Store was founded, and Wakefield soon became the business center of South Kingstown. As time progressed, the mills throughout the village became bigger and allowed for population growth. By 1895, there were 1,543 people living in the village. The first hospital was created in 1919 inside a house, and by 1925, the South County Hospital building was erected. It is still in the same location today. The village of Wakefield is rich in history, and its proximity to beaches and other attractions bring in thousands of tourists each summer.
