Tulsa raft race organizer explains decision to end annual event

Some people are disappointed to learn there will no longer be raft races on the Arkansas River. The event gave people the chance to float on the water in their homemade rafts with crowds cheering for them.

What led to the decision?

"We did what we set out to do," said Seth Erkenbeck, organizer and race director. "I think we helped change the landscape of what the Arkansas River corridor looks like."

Erkenbeck told News On 6 it takes a lot of preparation to put on the race, but the big undertaking did not factor into the decision.

What do participants think about the news?

Some people who took part in the races said they are disappointed.

"We just wonder why," said Tiffany Jones, who floated in last year's race.

Jones and other participants say the event brought people together and was a chance to showcase creativity. She was involved with others in a Jeeper's Anonymous group.

How long have the races been happening?

The races originally took place from 1973 to 1991. It was brought back by Erkenbeck and other organizers in 2015 and continued over the next decade, aside from disruptions because of COVID-19.

Could the races return one day?

"I would love for it to live on in some capacity," said Erkenbeck. "We would be open to having those conversations."

Jones is in favor of a revival.

"How do we keep this going?," she said. "Do we need to form our own committee?"

What is the final event?

A celebration of the race is scheduled for August 16th. More information can be found at https://www.tulsaraftrace.com/.