Ilia Smirnov, 42, of Angier, North Carolina will be attempting to set the record for fastest solo paddler (overall) and fastest male solo paddler.

He plans to launch on May 1st, 2026.

He will be supported by Anna Cameron and Alyce Morgan.

He will paddle a Wenonah Voyager canoe.

He writes “I’m just a guy with a paddle who likes challenges”

You can follow along on his Facebook page

and via his Garmin live tracker.

To read about the overall Mississippi River record and other records, click here.