Let’s hope that our Indian Summer weather continues through mid-November! It could make the conditions ideal for the upcoming Surf to Sound Challenge on November 15th through November 17th, 2013. Two WPA-sanctioned races plus lots of great opportunities for spectators are just a couple reasons why this is such an anticipated Stand Up Paddle board event.
The Surf to Sound Challenge kicks off on Friday evening at the Blockade Runner with registration and a reception for paddlers, their friends, and families. At that time, race fees will be collected and race jerseys will be distributed. All participants will also have free admission to Saturday’s N.C. Surf to Sound Expo from 12 noon to 6 pm.
The elite 6.5-mile course is for extreme paddlers who will begin the race with a surf start and make their way to the open ocean, through Masonboro Inlet, navigate the channels behind Masonboro Island and finish on the sound side of Wrightsville Beach. The top 3 finishers in Men’s 14 and Women’s 12’6 will be awarded cash prizes. Additionally, there will be other awesome prizes from the Surf to Sound Challenge sponsors. Other board divisions this year include, Men’s Unlimited (over 14), Men’s 12’6, and smaller boards under 12’6.
The 4-mile Harbor Island Outer Loop is a flatwater course and perfect for intermediate paddlers. It will circle Harbor Island, pass through Mott’s Channel, the ICW, Lee’s Cut, and end at the finish line in Banks Channel. The course is especially rewarding and fun because it takes paddlers under all three bridges!
Of course the kids are going to need to try their hand at SUP racing as well! On Saturday, they will have their chance at the Surf Zone Kids Race, which begins at 1:00 pm-sound side in front of the Blockade Runner. This event is free.
On Sunday, November 17th, the East Coast Paddle Surf Championship will take place starting at 10 am. Paddlers will test their wave-riding skills, ocean side, in front of the Blockade Runner. The weekend’s festivities will wrap up with an awards ceremony on Sunday afternoon-time TBA. The Blockade Runner Resort is the official headquarters. For more information and to register for the races, view the 2013 NC Surf to Sound Challenge eventbrite website.