The USRA is the governing body for whitewater raft racing in the United States. The USRA
works with the International Rafting Federation and other national governing bodies throughout
the world to make sure the United States is represented in international competition. The USRA
also strives to promote the sport of raft racing in the United States from a local level to a national
level. Teams selected through the National Championship Series represent the United States in
international competition. The USRA continually strives to grow the sport within the USA and is
a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
Due to attrition, we currently have several positions open at the USRA that are desperately
needed to fulfill the purpose of this organization.
Some of these positions can be filled as either a full USRA Board of Directors position, (which
comes with additional responsibilities, voting privileges and time commitment) or as an
Executive Committee Leader (which has a more limited set of responsibilities and voting
privileges, and therefore less time commitment). The following is a summary of the positions
we desperately need to fill.
Treasurer – Have charge and custody of, and be responsible for, all funds and securities of the
corporation, and deposit all such funds in the name of the corporation in such banks, trust
companies, or other depositories as shall be selected by the board of directors.
Media Relations – Directs and maintains the outflow of information through the USRA website,
social media platforms, and press releases to relevant news outlets. Including information about
national and international racing and current US teams.
Sponsorship Coordinator – Seeks out and establishes partnerships and sponsorships for the
USRA, USA Teams, and USRA sanctioned events. Works toward both in kind and monetary
sponsors.
Teams Coordinator – Provide and obtain necessary information to and from all existing USRA
teams as well as interested participants. The team director actively works towards encouraging
the formation of competitive raft racing teams, coordinates with National Race organizers, and
coordination and communication with the International Rafting Federation and IRF sanctioned
race organizers.
These are of course all volunteer positions. The USRA Bylaws, including a full description of
the duties of each position, as well as definitions for BOD members vs. Committee Leaders is
currently under revision. New officers will be invited to engage in this revision process, and
subsequent adoption. My goal is for the USRA officers to establish clear language for each
position, and develop an annual set of measurable deliverables, that lays out reasonable
expectations and outcomes. In clear language this means, don’t burn anyone out, get something
done, and be efficient.
There are many factors currently constraining the manifestation of both National and
International level whitewater rafting competition. It will take focus and dedicated effort to
create opportunity and growth of USA teams. Please consider joining the USRA team to reignite
whitewater raft racing in 2023 and 2024.
Sincerely,
Susan Norman, President
US Rafting Association