In October of 2009, Laredo was the heart of an International Kayak and Canoe Competition sanctioned by Texas Canoe Kayak Racing Association and Federacion Mexicana de Canotaje. The bi-national 33-mile race saw the best competitors (USA and World Record Holders) from across America (a few who originally hailed from Europe), Mexico, and Belize who competed for cash prizes in excess of $30,000 making the inaugural event the richest cash prize race in Texas and Mexico.