Graz becomes the SUP capital: GRAZ RIVER DAYS 2025 – paddling action on the River Mur
Austria’s vibrant city of Graz will once again host one of the biggest stand-up paddling festivals of the year: the GRAZ RIVER DAYS. Taking place directly on the banks of the scenic Mur River at the iconic Seifenfabrik event venue, this SUP festival brings together beginners and pros for a weekend of exciting races and innovative formats.
The action kicks off Friday at 6:00 PM with the popular ISUP Downriver Race, covering 6 kilometers downstream. With no buoy turns, paddlers follow the river’s current and must adapt to varying flow conditions. The race finishes in the city center, with a winner’s celebration taking place right at the Seifenfabrik. This race counts toward the SUP Alps Trophy Funclass ranking.
Saturday evening from 6:00 PM marks the start of a brand-new endurance challenge: the TIME TRIAL PRO LONGDISTANCE. Athletes will take off at one-minute intervals on a 10-kilometer course, racing against the clock. The fastest male and female paddlers will earn the titles King of Speed and Queen of Speed, sharing a prize purse of €2,000. This race is part of the SUP Alps Trophy Pro Longdistance ranking. The awards ceremony includes age group categories, with SUP Alps Trophy medals awarded on-site. All participants will enjoy food and festivities as live results are published online in real time – setting the stage for an exciting evening.
Sunday’s highlight begins at 10:30 AM with the Technical Race in a knockout format – an ideal opportunity for paddlers to experience one of the sport’s most thrilling race styles and gain valuable competition experience for upcoming international events.
A special feature of the event: the races also serve as the Styrian SUP Championships, open to all athletes registered with an ASF-affiliated club in Styria, regardless of nationality. This local ranking is organized by the SUP Club Graz.
An experienced team ensures a top-tier event: Rudy van Haven will serve as race director and commentator, while Normen Weber, Gerd Weisner & team manage timing and race operations. Beloved sports photographer Andy Klotz will once again be capturing the best moments – ensuring every participant leaves with a memory to keep.
The GRAZ RIVER DAYS, part of the SUP Alps Trophy, promise a weekend full of energy, community, and pure passion for the sport of stand-up paddling – right in the heart of Graz.