North American Wife Carrying Championship
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North American Wife Carrying Championship®
The North American Wife Carrying Championship® takes place on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Sunday River in Newry, Maine, as part of the Fall Fest weekend. The event is the 26th annual running of this competition and is held at 15 South Ridge Road, Newry, ME 04261.
Teams race on foot through a 278-yard obstacle course that includes log hurdles, a sand trap, and the water hazard known as the "Widow Maker." Rounds begin with qualifying heats; the fastest two teams from the qualifying rounds advance to a final heat to compete for the championship title.
Prizes for the top teams include the wife’s weight in beer and five times her weight in cash. Teams do not have to be legally married, but each team must consist of one man and one woman, and both members must be at least 21 years old on race day to qualify for the world championship. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
