Help us keep the Chirripo Steep Creek Race thriving..

Help us keep the Chirripo Steep Creek Race thriving & prove that big events can come from small, close-knit communities.

In the tallest mountains of Costa Rica lies one of the world’s most stunning yet challenging and technical sections of whitewater — the Rio Chirripo. This river is the life of a vibrant ecosystem and a small mountain town that comes alive each year for the Chirripo Steep Creek Race. Our world-class kayaking event is equal parts adrenaline and skill and community, conservation, and creating opportunities for athletes who might otherwise never get their shot on the world stage.

The Story Behind the Race

The race was born from the passion of two kayakers: Travis Belville, an American who has called Costa Rica home for nearly 20 years, and Diego Solano, a Costa Rican who grew up on the river kayaking for most of his life here in Costa Rica, both having competed at an international level, it’s a long-time dream to be able to bring some of that magic to their own backyard in Costa Rica.

A Note From the Organizers

Together, we dream of growing our competition to bring the world’s best professional athletes to Costa Rica but also shine a light on our own local, talented athletes with huge potential – young competitors who don’t get the support they should for the talent they have. All while promoting the incredible natural beauty in Costa Rica’s mountains and the importance of preserving our rivers.

Why This Race Matters

The Chirripo Steep Creek Race is a non-profit event that supports water conservation, promotes a deeper connection to nature, and brings people from all over the world together to appreciate an exciting sport in a beautiful place. For local athletes, it’s a chance to compete alongside international pros without the usual barriers like work, time, coaching & of course the money it usually costs to travel and compete internationally.

For local young people, it’s an introduction to a sport that could change their lives, something that brings them purpose, discipline, and a sense of belonging. And for the community, it’s a celebration that brings business, energy, and a positive spotlight to this beautiful corner of the world.

But hosting an event of this caliber isn’t easy — or cheap. From high-tech timing systems to ensure fair competition, to essential safety teams, ambulances, clean up and environmental protections, the costs add up quickly. Despite the generous support of our kayaking-legend sponsors, like Immersion Research, NRS and 4Corners Riversports, we still need your help to cover the essential costs that keep this event accessible, safe, and world-class.

What Your Donation Supports

We’re aiming to raise $3,000 to help cover the costs of hosting the Chirripo Steep Creek Race. Here’s exactly where your money will go:

By donating, you’re supporting a sporting event, sure, but we have plans to be so much more. You’re helping to showcase Costa Rica as a host for world-class sporting events, you’re giving local athletes a platform to shine, and you’re contributing to vital conservation efforts that keep these beautiful rivers flowing.

Join Us in Making a Difference

With your support, we can ensure the Chirripo Steep Creek Race continues to inspire, challenge, and unite people from all over the world. Your donation, no matter the size, makes a huge impact. Together, we can prove that even the smallest communities can host big, impressive events that leave a lasting legacy. And not everything needs a corporate stamp to be successful.

We prefer to keep our community of sponsors in the hands of businesses who have directly impacted our sport or river conservation or small businesses who deserve the air time. So, truly, every donation helps us keep the spirit of our movement alive.

Thank you for being a part of our story. Thank you for believing in the power of sport, nature, and community.

Pura Vida,

Travis, Diego, and the Chirripo Steep Creek Race Team