The 4th Annual Cold Stroke Classic SUP race, held at the Blocakade Runner in Wrightsville Beach NC, was an epic event with the highest racer sign up in the events history and the highest winds. Over 130 competitors took to the water, which seemed to make sense with temps in upper 60's, however they were greeted to some serious wave action and for most the race sustained 38 mile an hour winds.
My hats off to the staff at Coastal Urge, the race organizer, for keeping things number 1 safe and 2 very under control. (Considering how many racers were falling in the water and how many vendors and spectators were dodging boards and tents flying around on the beach.) Coatal Urge owner, and Wrightsville Beach local, Jeoffrey Nathan called in some favors and tons of extra buddies were out in boats keeping people safe from the conditions and exhaustion.
There was a great post race party at the Blockade Runner and the awards ceremony went off with people giving extra cheers, especially for the Recreational classes. Everyone who finished this race was a winner for sure, it was really tough out there. Werner Paddles gave away quite a few paddles for winners and we were proud to be there to see them up on the podium.
I wish we had some more race picks but the event was really more about keeping things safe and under control on the beach, nobody really wanted to be pulling cameras out. You can check out Distressed Mullet for more blogs and some pics as well. For all the race results check here. Special thanks to Jason at Carolina Paddle Board Company for hosting the after hours party at their great new shop. Be sure to check out the Werner Paddles Events Page for up and coming SUP races in your area, we hope to see you on the beach or at the start line!
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