Dana Point, CA – (September 15, 2011) — The world’s top stand-up paddle (SUP) racers are preparing for a battle royale at Doheny State Beach 10 days from now, in the $25,000 4th annual Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez BATTLE OF THE PADDLE.
Defending champions Danny Ching (Redondo Beach, CA) and Candice Appleby (Honolulu, HI), and 10-time world paddleboard champion Jamie Mitchell (Queensland, Australia) will be competing in the world’s preeminent SUP competition.
Due to the dramatic growth of SUP racing, this year’s Elite Race will feature a new format of two shorter-course qualifying heats for men and women, and an ultimate final. Register online at www.battleofthepaddle.com .
Along with world class competition, the Rainbow Sandals Battle of the Paddle is recognized industry-wide for its beach expo, featuring the world’s best SUP shapers and manufacturers, their latest equipment and accessories, discounted merchandise, and free hands-on demonstrations for the public. There are also SUP races for children.
The Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle is proudly supported by California State Parks; DSBIA; Clif Bar, Duke’s Restaurant; Hobie Surf Shop; Maui Jim Sunglasses; Kona Brewing Co.; Patagonia; and Riviera Paddleboards.
EVENTS OF THE BATTLE OF THE PADDLE
Free SUP Expo:
Meet the world’s best shapers and manufacturers, check out their latest board designs and paddle innovations and purchase these goods at steep discounts. Naturally there will be demo boards and paddles of all shapes and sizes available for those who want to perfect their stroke or even try SUP for the first time.
Kids Activities:
The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association will be organizing kid’s activities and expo throughout the weekend. If your kid is open to maximum fun, have him/her enter the Kid’s SUP Races being organized by Keli Outrigger & Paddles Sports.
Elite Race:(Saturday)
Featuring the world’s best SUPers including prior champions Danny Ching (Redondo Beach, CA), Chuck Patterson (Dana Point, CA), and Jamie Mitchell (Australia). Expect loads of excitement, thrills and spills as the top paddlers put it all on the line for cash & glory. The course is a multiple lap circuit that includes paddling through the surf and beaching equipment for a short, flagged sand run.
2010 Champions: Danny Ching, California (men) & Candice Appleby, Hawaii (women).
Open Age-Group Race: (Saturday)
Open to everyone! The course is a friendly, fun and moderately challenging buoy course. Entrants can paddle any board of their choosing, including surfboard class, 12’6″, 14′ and Unlimited. You can expect a record number of entries. Don’t miss out on being a part of history!
SUP Distance Race: (Sunday)
Competitors include a mixed bag of international talent and local hopefuls. The Course is a scenic but challenging 10-mile course from Doheny State Beach to San Clemente Pier, and back.
SUP Surf Relay Race: (Sunday)
Includes prize money. Last year over 160 paddlers participated in the relays and had an incredible amount of fun doing it. Grab some family members or co-workers, maybe even a few new friends you’ve made on the beach and give it a go!
Everyone who enters The Battle of the Paddle will receive a free pair of Rainbow Sandals, event tee and lunch. All event proceeds to go to the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association. The Kona Brewing Beer Garden will be open 11-4pm each day with live musical entertainment.
Whether you’re racing for the prize or just getting started, the Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez’s Battle of the Paddle is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Southern California’s original surf lifestyle, and the dynamic new surf paddle sport known as SUP.