I know the PSUP event at the Frankston Waterfront Festival has been covered elsewhere, but I just wanted to bring attention to the wonderful new downwind event that Jeff and Lynda Lim and the team from Peninsula SUP have delivered this past weekend.
Instead of providing just another race on the heavily clogged calendar of same-old same-old SUP races inevitably won by the same people every other weekend, Jeff and Lynda promoted this event as a "Downwind Expression Session."
What exactly does that mean?
Well, first of all, competitors were briefed ahead of time that pure racing and line honours was not the be-all and end-all. In fact, there were several criteria laid down incorporating style, application, mastery of the conditions, aloha spirit and enthusiasm. The race to the finish line was in many ways, the least important factor.
I just think this is a brilliant concept, especially in the context of a Downwinder, because as we all know, the biggest winner on any Downwind paddle is rarely the one who makes it to the beach first, and almost always the one with the biggest smile on his or her face at the end of the day. When we are caught up in the racing scene, it is too easy to forget that the sport of Stand Up Paddling incorporates so much more than just racing. Stand Up Paddling is a social sport, and we need to recognise those who go above and beyond to spread the good cheer, fun and enjoyment of the sport.
As it happens, the judges awarded the prize to Chris Clarke, and for everyone who participated, this was a popular and worthy decision. Maybe you had to be there, but for all the paddlers, Chris well and truly embodied all of the criteria established by the organisers on the day. For this reason it was no surprise to hear Chris' name called out. What was surprising to all of us, not the least being Chris himself, was the actual prize. The good people at Aircalin had kindly donated a trip to New Caledonia! No doubt Chris will put that to good use with some solid water time while he is there.
Once again, kudos and thanks to PSUP - Jeff and Lynda and the team, on creating a brilliant format, and of course Aircalin for the awesome prize. And congratulations and well done Chris.
Amen to all that.
The thing that was so cool to see was not only did the faster/more accomplished paddlers stop and wait from time to time, but they paddled BACK against the wind a bunch of times to check on the slower crew, give them a bit of encouragement and pass on a few tips (the run was 12k I reckon Chris paddled at least half of that again). With prizes awarded to a bunch of folks for endeavour, style, DW skill, spirit of aloha (and of course, line honours in there somewhere), everyone who was actually out there on the water was stoked with where the prizes went. Such a great vibe on and off the water.
Thanks for supporting the event PT and HC - and to the competitors at the event - on both days - who faced the weather conditions without complaint - just went out there, head down and paddled - without competitors - no event is a success!
For the record - the 10km Downwind Expression Session:
Line honours went to Steve Ferguson (men) and Danielle Cameron (women)
The Aloha award went to Justin Ormonde -
Newcomers Award went to Mark Balish
Downwinder Style Award to Chris Clarke
Overall Award as PT outlines above went to Chris Clarke
And here's why we do what we do - some frothing kids - egged on by a wounded Doggie - who mastered the Kananook Creek in the Kid's SUP event - Roy, Jess, Taj, Jackson and Lucas - you kids rock!
