by Kristina Morros
For many paddlers, race weekends are about much more than competition. They are an opportunity to travel, reconnect with friends, discover new waterways, and spend time with a community brought together by a shared passion for stand-up paddleboarding. That spirit was on full display at this year's Bill Bone Paddle the Peanut in Riviera Beach, Florida, on July 19th. After challenging conditions last year, the 2026 event offered nearly perfect racing weather. Calm water, light winds, overcast skies, and minimal boat traffic created fast conditions on Lake Worth Lagoon, allowing competitors to enjoy one of Florida's most scenic race venues. The race board course covered approximately 4.5 miles, taking paddlers on two laps around scenic Peanut Island. Recreational paddlers completed one lap, while canoe, kayak, and outrigger competitors tackled longer distances. There was even a SUP with Your Dog division, adding to the event's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Notable Finish Times
There were several standout performances highlighted this year's race: Mark Hewitt posted the fastest stand-up paddleboard time overall, finishing in 39:36 while competing in the Men's 60+ division. Lenin Henderson captured the Men's Open title in 40:22, while Gabriella Cukier won the Women's Open division aboard an inflatable race board with a remarkable 41:44 finish.
Other standout performances included Michael Markunas (41:02) and Allen Alquist (42:47), demonstrating the depth of competition throughout the field. One of the day's most impressive divisions was Men's 60+, where multiple athletes recorded times that would be competitive in any age group. Among the women, Kristina Morros claimed the Women's 50+ division in 41:21, while Sabrina Wong earned second place with a strong 49:39 finish.
Passion Has No Age Limit
One of the day's most memorable stories belonged to Ben Martin, who won the Men's 70+ division at 78 years old.
Martin competed on a custom-built 14-foot race board that he designed and built himself, complete with a classic flame paint scheme. His story perfectly captures the creativity, dedication, and lifelong passion found throughout the paddle community. It's a reminder that competitive spirit and a love for the sport have no age limit.
Post-Race, Riviera Style
Following the awards ceremony, many competitors gathered at the nearby sandbar alongside boats, jet skis, and local paddlers to enjoy an afternoon on the water. While stand-up paddle racing is technically an individual sport, events like Paddle the Peanut serve as a reminder that one of its greatest strengths is the community surrounding it. Every race brings together paddlers of different ages, backgrounds, and experience levels, united by a love of being on the water.
For many competitors, those friendships are just as rewarding as the medals. The racing may bring people to the starting line, but it's the community that keeps them coming back year after year.
