By Anthea Halpryn, IPC Racing Task Force Chair

2024 was an exciting chapter in the world of paddlesport racing in Illinois, and we are excited to shine a spotlight on this year’s IPC Annual Canoe and Kayak Racing Award winners: George Werderich, Jim Pechous, Jennifer Miksula, Pat Faul, Nick Josefik, Dave Kies, and Steve Katz! These talented individuals have displayed exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the racing season.

It’s not easy to qualify for the Annual IPC Racing award. Winners must paddle in at least four of the seven IPC races. Points are awarded based on placing in each race, with the overall IPC winners having the most points at the end of the racing season.

The IPC 2024 Paddling Champions for each class that we had a qualified winner were:

Why Racing Matters

The accomplishments of George, Jim, Jennifer, Pat, Nick, Dave, and Steve reflect the thrilling essence of racing: passion, strategy, and community. As these racers continue to inspire, it’s essential to recognize how racing brings people together, ignites competition, and fosters a spirit of camaraderie. I asked a few of the racers what this win meant to them. George said “Winning the IPC award is truly special for me because it has been something that has been a special part of my family for the majority of my life. It was a goal of my father’s – accomplished paddling champion Wally Werderich – to win that award and as I got older, it became something I wanted to win, too.“

For Jennifer,  “The IPC award is the icing on the cake. I never expected to be recognized for racing with my friends and having an awesome time. My kids appreciate the award as much as I do. They see all the work and dedication that goes into training and reaching goals. They were proud.”

George, Jennifer, Nick and Steve all agree their most favorite race is the Des Plaines Canoe and Kayak Marathon. The race, held in May each year, is 18.5 miles long and brings around 600 people and 400 boats to the Des Plaines River. Celebrating its 68th year in 2025, the race is the largest of the seven-race IPC circuit. Jennifer shared, “It was my first race ever four years ago and I just wanted to finish.  I was very proud of my fourth place!  And then to progress to a trophy this year was amazing.” Steve shared, “I see a lot of old friends who are connected with Boy Scout Troop 228 at the Des Plaines race. They always bring a good contingent of scouts and parents who participate. It’s where I caught the whole paddling bug several years back when I first did the race with my 10-year-old son in a canoe. It took us just under five hours to finish that day and my son enjoyed a two-hour nap in the canoe from miles 10-17.”

Jennifer’s favorite racing moment this year was at the Fall Classic. “I get to race the morning race and then follow my son in the kids race for the afternoon. I can keep him safe without sacrificing my time. Watching him push and give his all and cross the finish line in pure exhaustion and determination is why I keep racing. We need more youth races and youth meet-ups to bring up the next generation.”

George has attended many races this year, both in- and out-of-state, yet his favorite racing moment was at a local race. “My favorite racing moment this year was getting the overall win at the Mid-American this year, as it was my first overall win. I would also like to thank the IPC for making these events possible!”

Steve has appreciated different aspects of paddling throughout his life. His youth was spent enjoying the more competitive aspects, but “Now that I’m older (61), I have found paddling to be a great non-impact form of exercise that so far, has been injury-free. Winning the IPC award was a nice surprise and bonus.”

“Winning the Standard title this year was very emotional for me,” said Nick Josefik.  “Pat Faul and I used to race together, and we were able to win the Standard title about 25 years ago. Last spring, Pat called me and asked me to race with him this year. I was so excited to get the team back together again after so long.  We got in the boat and it was just like old times. I had so much fun in the races, I enjoyed every minute of it. I’m so glad Pat asked me to race again. I have made life-long friends through the IPC, with Pat being one of my closest friends and mentors. We had great races this year and really fun competition with the other teams. I don’t think I’ll be able to top the fun I had racing with Pat this year, but  we’ll try to top it next year. “

Get Involved in Racing!

If you’re feeling inspired by the achievements of our IPC winners and want to get involved in the world of racing, there are several ways to do so!

1. Attend Local Races: The seven IPC races are (in race order): Current Buster, Des Plaines Canoe and Kayak Marathon, Voyageur Landing, Pontiac, DuPage/Channahon, Vic Hopp Memorial, and the Fall Classic. Also mentioned is the Mid-American race in June.
2. Join a Racing Club or Fitness Paddling Club: It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and learn more about the sport.
3. Volunteer: Racing events often need enthusiastic volunteers. Consider helping out at an event to get behind-the-scenes access and learn more about the intricacies of the sport.

Anthea Halpryn is an IPC Board Member and chair of the Racing Task Force and External Affairs Committee. She is a lead organizer for the Annual Des Plaines Marathon. She has won several races, including the Mississippi River 150, and this year completed the Missouri River 340.