Team River Runner’s Vet Kayak Program has been a beacon of hope and healing for military veterans, offering not only a recreational outlet but also a supportive community rooted in shared experiences and camaraderie. It was founded in 2004 by Joe Mornini, a former Navy officer, and whitewater kayaker that I used to paddle with on the Potomac when I was training for slalom there in the 80’s and 90’s. Joe started small working with one person at a time, initially aimed to introduce wounded veterans to the therapeutic benefits of whitewater kayaking. However, it soon evolved into a more comprehensive program catering to veterans of all abilities and backgrounds.
Over the years, the Vet Kayak Program has expanded its reach, with Whitewater kayakers establishing chapters across the United States and forging partnerships with veterans’ hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other organizations serving the military community. Through structured paddling sessions, multi-day trips, and competitive events, participants not only develop kayaking skills but also build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. I have been fortunate enough to be able to spend time with both the vets in the program and the kayakers who volunteer to help teach them and spent time with them.
One of my favorite TRR trips was with Dane back in 2006 where we went to Ben Kwanli’s chapter in Texas on the San Marco’s river and met up with a crew of Vets he taught to paddle and we did a road trip down to Mexico to run the Agua Azul and it’s waterfalls. I still have great friends from that trip including Barry Gay, who I have since paddled with around the world.
Ben, Michelle, my brother-in-law Scott, Barry, and Dane on camera posing for our group trip to Mexico.
Joe Mornini was always paddling on the Potomac in his composite kayaks. He would train some slalom, but for fun and fitness, more than racing. When I was out paddling plastic boats, he would ask me why I wasn’t paddling composite. Surfing Rocky Island, O’Deck, Center Chute, etc.. in his various fiberglass/kevlar boats and always telling anyone in a plastic boat the virtues of composites. It is only fitting that he now has two lightweight advanced composite kayaks for his program, and that they live in DC, where he started Team River Runner.
This was John O’Neil’s, from Potomac Maryland, and a part of Apex Watercraft, idea and he funded the gift to TRR. John has been a huge help to Apex when we were just getting the company started and this sponsorship of TRR will help vets who can’t carry a heavy plastic boat, or don’t have the same power on the water due to upper body injury, move the boat with ease in comparison.
Joe Mornini will feel back at home, like in the 80’s, when he takes them out for a spin!
From Joe- “They are in….just spending time admiring right now…I repeat, thanks, but will have the Veterans who take turns paddling them send their thanks!!”
