Naples Canoe Races | Morgan Layton & Matt Young

"The Great Return: Reviving a Naples Tradition with Morgan Layton & Matt Young"

In this episode of Everybody Loves Naples, we're diving into one of the city's most iconic and beloved traditions — the Great Dock Canoe Race — and its exciting revival as The Great Canoe Races of Naples. Our guests, Morgan Layton and Matt Young, are two of the community leaders behind the event’s return in 2025 after a four-year hiatus.

Morgan, a seasoned executive search professional and active member of the Young Professionals of Naples, and Matt, a Naples-based entrepreneur and co-founder of The Rose House, share the story of how they teamed up to bring this legendary event back to life. From honoring the race’s rich 40+ year history to reimagining it for a new generation, they discuss what it takes to reinvigorate a community tradition and make it bigger, better, and more inclusive than ever.

We talk themes, races, behind-the-scenes logistics, and how this year's event — set for June 14 at Baker Park — will not only pay tribute to the past but also pave the way for future community engagement in Naples.

Whether you’re a longtime local or new to town, this episode will give you all the feels (and maybe a little FOMO) for one of Naples’ most joyful and eccentric annual events. Don’t miss it!

🚣‍♀️ The Great Canoe Races of Naples

• Instagram: @naplescanoeraces

• Official Website: naplescanoeraces.com

The event is set for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Baker Park, celebrating its 45th edition with the theme “The Great Return.” Expect a day filled with races, live entertainment, a vendor fair, and a beer garden.

• Morgan Layton on Instagram: @morgz826

• Matt Young on Instagram: @mattoutyoung

As a special thank you to our Everybody Loves Naples podcast listeners, enjoy 40% off your canoe race team registration (teams of two, one boat) with promo code ELN40 at checkout on naplescanoeraces.com.

Stay connected and follow the journey as Naples brings back this iconic tradition. Don't miss out on the fun, community spirit, and a chance to be part of history!