The Sand Up Paddle Salavaux was a thrilling event, even though it was only a technical race. The day began with a one-lap qualification in the morning, where each participant started 30 seconds apart, setting the stage for the exciting heats to come. The open men’s category saw quarterfinals, semifinals, and a final, while other categories competed in semifinals and finals. There was even a “Final B” for those who didn’t make it past the semis, ensuring everyone had a chance to race again.
The course was 500 meters long, with participants completing two laps, except for the open men’s final A, where they tackled three laps. A unique element of this race was the beach run around a buoy, adding an extra challenge and excitement.
For the first time, the Swiss SUP community got to experience a beach race, complete with sand starts and running with their boards and paddles. It was a novel experience for many, and the smiles on their faces showed just how much they enjoyed it. The day was a huge success, marking a memorable moment for everyone involved.
