East Coast SUP Cup!

I had the opportunity to enter and compete in my very first race on June 28th. The race was called ‘Paddle Second Chance’ which raised money for the charity Operation Second Chance. I was nervous, not exactly knowing what to expect going into the race, but as soon as I started to meet people, talk with fellow racers, and went over the course, any shred of anxiety instantly melted with the glowing reception I felt from everyone involved.

And that is exactly the type of atmosphere in which racers will experience at this years East Coast SUP Cup on North Division St. in Ocean City, MD. So don’t be shy and don’t be worried, even if you have never raced before, you will be surprised at how welcoming everyone involved is.

If you are unfamiliar with racing, the style of race for the SUP Cup is called “Battle of the Paddle.” For the elite race, contestants will be tasked with starting the race on land. Once the start is called, paddlers will have to carry their boards into the surf, fight through the break, and make their way out to the 4 mile course which is marked by buoys. But the challenge does not end there. As one lap is completed racers have to surf their way to shore, get back to dry land, and do a short sprint around a course, get back on their boards and make their way through the surf once again.

For the average racer it might be difficult. It might be a challenge. But it will definitely be a lot of fun! And the feeling of accomplishment once you have completed the race will be unmatched.

Just imagine how strong you will feel once you have conquered an ocean race on a paddle board. Are you imagining it? Looks pretty great right? Well imagine that as a reality.

That sounds like an oxymoron: imagining reality. Or maybe it’s a paradox. I’m not sure. It’s definitely something. Oh right, it’s awesome. Yeah, that’s what it is: awesome.

And if you aren’t experienced as a racer, fear not! For the inexperienced racers who just want to try something new and fun, there is also an open race which consists of a 2-3 mile course depending on conditions, where all board sizes, all skill levels and age groups are encouraged to compete!

And if you aren’t a paddler, fear not! The race is being held on the beach. You know, that place where people go to relax and enjoy themselves. So why not spend a nice day on the beach and watch some exciting races. I promise, it will be very, very cool to see.

And if you aren’t a beach person, fear not! The after party is being held at Seacrets! Jamaica USA! Where there will be great food, drinks, and a party atmosphere!

And if you aren’t a Seacrets person, well then, maybe having fun just isn’t for you.

But if fun is your thing, then come join us! And as an added bonus it’s also for a great cause. We will be raising money for donation to be sent to the ONRP (Outpatient Neuro Rehabilitation Program) at Johns Hopkins, which deals with brain injuries and recovery. Which, if anyone has ever spent a night at Seacrets knows, having extra funding towards brain injury recovery and research, is definitely a good thing. Wow, what a completely inappropriate joke. Yeah, I know, I’m sorry.

On a serious note though, it is going to be a great race, a great time, and you will be donating to a great cause that can help a lot of people with serious brain injuries and their recoveries. And that is something we can all feel great about. So come on out!


Sign up below:

https://paddleguru.com/races/EastCoastSUPCUP