A picture-perfect day in South Florida, with temperatures hovering at 75 degrees and the wind blowing at 15 mph from the southeast, enticing paddlers to venture out in full force. Over 100 enthusiasts eagerly embarked on the two distinct courses awaiting them, 4.6 and 3 mile.
The first group, comprising outrigger canoes and surf skis, set course towards Indiantown Bridge. Their journey spanned roughly 2 miles down the Intracoastal Waterway, leading southwards towards the Power Lines Course, where they turned at channel marker 19. Following a one-minute interval, a large contingent of stand-up paddlers embarked on the same route. After another minute gap, the final group of stand-up paddlers tackled a slightly shorter 3-mile course known as the Yacht Club Course.
Post paddle, a gathering and brief awards ceremony ensued at Guanabanas Restaurant. Participants enjoyed beverages courtesy of Sailfish Brewing or Costa Tequila. The fastest male and female paddlers in both courses, along with stand-up and sit-down divisions, were honored with medals from Modern Juice, dry bags from Scales, and hand-made mugs from Flying Fish Paddleboard Co. See the full results on Paddle Guru or here. The prestigious Unsung Paddler, dubbed "Golden Paddle Award," was presented to a participant who selflessly aided another in need, sacrificing his personal race and outcome, showing a true spirit of community and selflessness.
A remarkable day both on and off the water, bolstered by unwavering community support. Flying Fish Paddleboard Co. hosted their owner's weekend, drawing paddlers from across the nation, including Puerto Rico and Canada, encouraging over 80 stand-up paddlers to participate. Similarly, the sit-down paddle community rallied, bringing over 30 participants to the event.
To relive the day's excitement on the water, check out the links from our friends Brian Hall and Lisa Bee who captured the action.
We have one final event on March 9th, marking the conclusion of our Winter Paddle Series. Join us as we celebrate the fastest paddlers of the event and the series, as well as recognizing the most improved participants based on the biggest improvement in times. Registration is now open, secure your spot today for this family-friendly, fun-filled experience.
For those unable to attend, mark your calendars for the Race the Tide event on May 18th, featuring a blend of a boat and paddle parade down the Intracoastal Waterway! Click here for more information and registration details.
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