The Spirit of the MR 340: A Conversation with Scott Mansker and Steve Schnarr

In season two of Paddle Sports Lifestyle, we are introducing you to the people and stories behind this epic endurance race. And, what a perfect kick off to the season: a conversation with Steve Schnarr and Scott Mansker!   A few highlights from this episode:    👥 There's a unique culture thriving within the MR340 community – one of support, generosity, and an endless supply of advice for newcomers. It's about the journey, the river, and the people you meet along the way.   🏞️What drives the MR340 paddlers? A shared love for the untamed beauty of the Missouri River, and a passion for its preservation. Every racer is an advocate for this historic waterway. The MR340 is not just a race; it's an event to raise funds and awareness for the mission of  Missouri River Relief.    ‼️ Reminder: Preparation is key! Safety measures, gear adequacy, and weather awareness are essential. Our guests, stewards of the race and river, remind us of some precautions.   🆕 Newbies: do not fear! You can do this! There's wisdom in joining forces with veteran voyagers, harnessing collective knowledge, and training and communicating with those who have done this before!    🚣🏽‍♀️The rising tide of female participation in MR340 speaks volumes. Word is getting out, and this race is breaking boundaries and empowering women!   Steve Schnarr is a devoted steward of the Missouri River, serving as the Executive Director of Missouri River Relief, a Columbia, Missouri-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a profound connection between people and the river. Steve's leadership at Missouri River Relief has seen the cultivation of numerous programs, events, educational opportunities, river cleanups, and races, all with the goal of creating enduring and impactful experiences for individuals and communities drawn to the preservation and appreciation of the Missouri River.   Scott Mansker founded the MR340 in 2006, and has since grown the race from 16 racers the first year to the world-class challenge it is today. His unparalleled knowledge of every bend on the Missouri River and mastery at simplifying the most tangled logistics make him the go-to resource for all things Mr340. Having turned ownership of the race over to Missouri River Relief, Scott now serves as the Safety Boat Coordinator.      Some Additional Details:   Want a quick way to shop for your 2024 MR340 experience? Check out my "What's on the boat?" list! Amazon Storefront - WHAT WAS ON MY BOAT Do you own or manage a business along the river? Do you want help getting people interested in your community? Embrace the future of tourism by offering Digital Audio Tours, an innovative and immersive solution that takes sightseeing to a whole new level. Learn more.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle:   Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear Amazon Storefront - WHAT WAS ON MY BOAT Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog MR340: July 23-26, 2024 - https://mr340.org/   Buy Paddling Shirts and Gift Items at the Paddle Sports Lifestyle Store!