GROVE OAK, Ala. — North Alabama Whitewater Festival raised over $340 for StreamBeam over the weekend, as the event returned for the second consecutive year.

From Feb. 19-21, participants in NAWFest paddled rivers across the Southeast, working toward the goal of submitting something for five different categories. NAWFest awarded first, second and third place for miles paddled, different rivers paddled, best downriver move, best trick off a waterfall and cleanest rapid run.

Two participants finished tied for best overall placement, as Keith Yell and Gibson Culver were crowned the GOATs of NAWFest 2026.

Following the awards, NAWFest held a raffle, with proceeds directly benefitting StreamBeam, a non-profit organization dedicated to river gauge installation and maintenance for recreational use. In total, NAWFest raised $342 for StreamBeam.

Over the three days, NAWFest saw submissions surpass 300 total miles paddled. The results of each event are as followed:

Most Miles Paddled

1. Lucien Scott — 33.19 mi.
2. Ryan Scott — 29.99 mi.
3. Mason Scott — 28.84

Most Rivers Run

1. Isaiah Brown — 10
2. Keith Yell — 9
3. Lily Crews Rogers — 8

Best Trick off of a Waterfall

1. Steven Halpin
2. Isaiah Brown
3. Gibson Culver

Best Downriver Move

1. Dano Jones
2. Gibson Culver
3. Keith Yell

Cleanest Rapid Run

1. Gibson Culver
2. Grace An George
3. Keith Yell