PORT BARRE, La. (KLFY)— The Tour du Teche 135 Canoe Race is now underway as participants battle it out in order to win cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights.

The 7^th annual race began October 7 and will last until the 9.

Participants will take their canoes, kayaks, SUP’s or Pirogues out to the Bayou Teche in what some call the Louisiana version of the Tour de France.

The full race runs the entire length of the Bayou Teche River beginning in Port Barre and ending in Berwick. To complete the full race, participants must row 135-miles in a three-day stage race.

The Tour du Teche 135 has two classes in which participants may enter. The Pro Race, in which event organizers say some of the fastest boats and paddlers from around the world compete for cash prizes. Or the Voyageur Race, which participants compete for trophies, bragging rights, and the ability to challenge themselves.

Voyageurs may also opt for shorter races held in conjunction with the Tour du Teche 135, according to event organizers.

Tour du Teche 135’s organizers say the race was introduced in 2010 as a way to introduce Teche Country to tourist and show residents economic value of the river.

For more information on waterway races in Louisiana, Click here.