Big Muddy Speaker Series presents:
Whitewater on the Mississippi: A St. Louis Kayaker's Story
Thirty-five years. Over 1,100 rapids. But it's not just the numbers that tell the story. It's the feeling of exhilaration as you navigate the whitewater, the peace of being on the river, and the community you find there.
Join Joe as he shares his journey from a novice paddler to a lifelong whitewater enthusiast right here in St. Louis. He'll take you through epic adventures, the thrill of racing, and the ongoing mission to make the Meramec River accessible to all through the "Paddle Park" project.
This presentation originally took place on October 8th, 2025 at Bike Stop Cafe in St. Charles, MO.
Hosted by the Greenway Network
Meet Your Presenter
Joe Sartori
, Missouri Whitewater Association
A passion for whitewater paddling first took hold of Joe right out of college in 1990. After earning his ACA L4 instructor certification in 1993, he dedicated himself to sharing that passion with others. For over three decades, he has been an advocate in the St. Louis paddling community, teaching hundreds of students on the St. Francis and Meramec rivers and designing courses for the Missouri Whitewater Championship Races. As a leader within the Missouri Whitewater Association, his efforts have expanded from instruction and racing to include conservation and groundbreaking projects like the "Paddle Park." Complimenting Joe’s endeavors in whitewater is his day job where he develops technical publications and training.
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