Searching for some genuine downwind thrills and spills? Well, Victoria's premier downwind ocean paddling marathon is back! The first race of the 2012 Go Natural Ocean Racing Series is the time-honoured Graeme Long Memorial Paddle, and it's locked in for Saturday, January 14.
This year there'll be two course options: Pro and Lite. The Pro course covers 26 kilometres from Urquhart's Bluff to Fisherman's Beach in Torquay (or vice versa, depending on the wind), and will be a true test of skill and endurance. The Lite course is for intermediate paddlers wanting a downwind challenge without the mega distance, and will cover 12km from Point Addis to Fisherman's Beach. Along the way, you'll take in the spectacular scenery of Bells Beach, Winkipop, Point Addis and Point Danger. And if the wind gods are kind, there'll be heaps of heart-starting runners to hurtle you to the finish line.
The Pro course is open to ocean racing skis, spec skis and outriggers (OC1, OC2 and OC6). The Lite course is open to these categories too, as well as plastic skis, SUPs and sea kayaks.
(Please note that this is not a beginner race - you will need open-ocean paddling experience to take part).
Fun stuff
This year's Graeme Long will see a race HQ set up at Fisherman's Beach where there'll be heaps of things to keep friends and family entertained while the competitors are out there racing (that's if you're not cheering them on from one of the many great vantage points along the Great Ocean Road). Epic Kayaks will be there with its full range of skis and paddles to try out, and there'll be a free SUP race with a mystery prize from the lads at SUPhq, St Kilda. Our charity partner, Surfrider Foundation, will also be there, spreading the 'Love Your Beach' message with a cool 'treasure' hunt for kids.
Prizes
As well as spot prizes from Epic Kayaks, Canoe Innovations, Peak Adventure, SUPhq and 2XU, there'll be over $2000 in cash on offer for the pointy end of the field. Plus every competitor will receive an entry pack full of goodies from Go Natural, 2XU, Outer Edge magazine and Tim Altman Naturopath.
Entries now open! If it's downwind action you're after, then don't hesitate. Cut-price online entries are open until 6 January 2012, so take advantage of the saving. Plus, enter online and you'll go into the draw to win a $100 voucher from Epic Kayaks! Follow the link below for full event info and to enter online: www.outlawpaddling.com
