News

Original Float for Freedom crew announces first public fundraiser

Float for Freedom crewmen Justin Pride, Alan Owings, Justin Patwin, Andrew Riddle and Sean Illgen pose aboard their homemade pontoon boat in August 1997.

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 20, 2026

The intrepid rafters who completed the 400-mile Float for Freedom three decades ago are holding their first public fundraiser next month.

Event host Andrew Riddle and other rowers on the original crew —Sean Illgen, Justin Patwin, Alan Owings and Justin Pride — are inviting the public to support the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County during the fundraiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at Honeysuckle Holler, 101 E Allen St.

In August 1997, the five Hendersonville friends set out on a homemade pontoon boat for an adventure that transformed into a lasting annual charitable effort. Over 14 days, they rowed 409 miles down the Mississippi River. With support from local sponsors and mentor Bob Clark, the crew donated proceeds from the trip and subsequent sale of their boat to fund college scholarships for Boys & Girls Club members.

Ever since, the Float for Freedom Fund at the Community Foundation of Henderson County has helped youth club members continue their education beyond high school.

The Nov. 6 gathering gives neighbors, friends and local businesses an opportunity to revisit the story behind the fund and support educational opportunities for the next generation of club members. The public is invited.