Kumu'ohu Challenge 2026

by Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President and NorthEast Region Member

This year marked the 20th anniversary of this tradition. 15 years after the SUP category was introduced in 2011. Relocated from the historic Washington Canoe Club boathouse that is currently undergoing rehabilitation to the Columbia Island Marina and featuring a new course. The event took place exactly three months since the catastrophic Potomac Interceptor sewer line failure released over 240 million gallons of untreated sewage into one of the largest rivers on the east coast. Since mid March, water sampling test results have been increasingly acceptable and recreational advisories lifted. The following are quotes from Kathy Summers and the WCC regarding the race and the first edition of the new SUP award.

 

Kathy Summers -

"The Kumu'ohu Challenge was started by WCC member Mitch Potter, who wanted to host the first paddle race of the Mid-Atlantic racing season while keeping fees as low as possible. His goal was simple: create a day of great racing and community. That meant an after-party for sure—but no fancy awards or race swag.

Why “Kumu’ohu”? Mitch and his wife Amy had hoped to get the Foggy Bottom Pub to sponsor the race. Since they were outrigger racers themselves, they chose a Hawaiian name that best translated to “Foggy Bottom,” landing on “Kumu’ohu.” The sponsorship didn’t come through—but the name stuck."

WCC -

“The WCC is proud to announce the Kathy Summers SUP Award, recognizing the fastest man and woman in the 12’6” and 14’ classes. Kathy Summers brought SUP to WCC, and this award honors her lasting contributions to both the club and the broader SUP community.”

It was a relatively calm day on the river with warm temperatures, low winds and little boat traffic. The flow of air traffic to and from Reagan National Airport was almost constant overhead as paddlers navigated the course from the start at the Navy and Marine Memorial, up to the Theodore Island pedestrian bridge, back past the start, then down halfway down along East Potomac Park before returning to the finish. The field consisted of paddlers traveling from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and southeast VA who joined some first-time racers as well as those returning. April Zilg was present to participate in the OC-1 category and afterwards she shared her skills in instructing a clinic. Congrats to Jack Ballard and Regan Littell in etching their names onto the first Kathy Summers Award and to all who participated on this wonderful day.

Hayden Miller @haydenonthewatwer 

The Paddle for Oahu

by NorthEast Member Josette Lata

The Paddle for Oahu was held on May 2nd in Seaside Heights NJ, the first race of the SUP season in the NorthEast. The race required participants to donate to the Lahui Foundation that provides flood relief such as food, helps farmers, and directs people to resources to help rebuild their homes which were affected by historic flooding. The event featured 2-mile and 5-mile races with participants heading North to circumnavigate West Point Island where conditions were very choppy and many people had to kneel through the chop. 

Despite being on protected flat water, the race was demanding, with many paddlers falling into the 48 degree bay. Everyone pushed through and enjoyed a pot luck meal which people brought themselves and laughter. The race had much support from Seaside Heights fire and rescue with 2 jet skis and the race directors own boat to make sure no one needed help in the cold temps. 

The race had about 30 people and it donated about $1500 to the foundation and was matched by the Surfers Environmental Alliance which is "Committed to the cultural and environmental integrity of the sport of surfing.” They support the Belmar Beach Bash, Surfers Healing and ran the beloved NY SEA paddle. Kevin Kliner an avid SUP master donated the awesome T-shirts. This race symbolizes the stoke that little NJ has. We all were affected by Hurricane Sandy in one way or another and every little bit helps.

The Treasure Coast Paddle Battle
by Troy Hendricks, North Central Regional Rep

The Treasure Coast Paddle Battle in Fort Pierce, FL, successfully kicked off the East Coast SUP season.

The event featured 10k and 5k races, with the 10k course starting on the ocean, passing through the Fort Pierce channel, and concluding at Jaycee Park. Conditions were particularly challenging this year; Race Director Victoria Burgess described the water as "sporty," with open ocean winds reaching 20 MPH. These conditions led approximately ten paddlers, including two USA SUP regional representatives, to switch from the 10k to the 5k course.

The 5k race followed a coat-hook-shaped course with a beach start and the same finish line as the 10k. Despite being on flat water, the race was demanding, as one segment headed directly into the 20 MPH winds, while others required paddlers to battle to stay on course.

New this year was the Sunday Technical Race. After setting the buoys, Victoria turned the coordination of the heats over to John Meskauskas. Conditions remained tough; the women’s division featured a single winner-take-all heat, while the men competed in three heats to determine the final.

The Texas Winter 100k
by Meral Amica Akyol

The Texas Winter 100k has been on my bucket list forever. Yesterday I was finally able to do it and it turned out to be the best 15mi River Race Lesson, that I ever had
With some background from winter paddling on Bodensee in Germany with waves, storms, cold and all the drama, I thought I knew what “wild water” meant. The 15mi SUP course seemed like “just a longer Paddle”, no big deal.

Well… the Colorado River between Utley Bridge and Bastrop politely laughed at me.
Rocks everywhere and Sandbanks and Logs playing hide and seek. Rocks in-between rapids that could easily be labeled Wildwater back home, took me off my board.

Some swirls that looked innocent where basically nature saying: “Something is under here. Good luck.” That was where some invisible underwater rocks took me off my board, while I was doing the “Superman” move time and time again.

I went from being 3rd overall to the end of the pack, fall by fall, getting stuck, carrying the board through shallow waters, getting back up and falling or getting stuck again in what felt like and endless repeat. Needless to say, that one of my biggest lessons was, that this course is not made for a 9” long fin. Now I have a reason to love my 4,5” inch rubber river fin that is safely packed away at home in Germany.
Thanks to Deborah Carrillo, I had a real good time paddling,   chatting and guesstimating the water. Her uplifting comments helped me feel less lost

Cudos to the other 3 Ladies in the SUP Sprint division, who won the podium.
1. Linda McCoy
2. Kiri Oksol Nevin
3. Deborah Carillo

Massive respect to every single paddler who took on the Challenge of this rocky low water Colorado River in Winter with high winds and gusts.
While we did the “sprint course”, the Main Race track of the Texas Winter 100k is a full 100 kilometer course that was done by all kinds of crafts and paddlers with different backgrounds, different boards, but who that shared the same madness and determination to finish. I have the highest respect for the 100k finishers who were exposed to temps between 29 and 45 F and winds up to 18kts.

Nature was powerful, cold was strong, but we all were stronger. We didn’t let the cold win

Already humbled. Already grateful. Already thinking about next time.
Thank you Kiri Oksol Nevin for the help , Linda McCoy from USA SUP for racing and showing up, Deborah Carrillo for the nice chat during the race. Veronica Sosa who did an amazing job for a 1st time race director.
Thank you to Christi Lancaster Bonura and Julia Smith and all the volunteers who kept us warm, hydrated and satiated.

Thank you to Oscar Propulsion for letting me use the 2 Piece adjustable Paddle. I used it for Last Paddler Standing and now also for this real rough endeavour. And as far as I can say it’s been beat up pretty “good” from crashing against the gravel. Seems to be a tough paddle.
Special thanks go out to my love John Knippers who inspires and supports me in unprecedented ways.

*Photos by Jason Sawyer 

The 3rd Annual Super Chill Paddle 'N' Plunge
by Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President, NorthEast Region

The 3rd Annual Super Chill Paddle 'N' Plunge presented by Aloha Paddle LKN lived up to it's name, for it took place on an unusually cold and windy winter day.

Paddlers from eight states convened in Moorseville, NC at Lake Norman for an early start to their season. The night before the race, entrants gathered for a welcome party and silent auction of an array of items to benefit Piper's Angels Foundation. Race participants could choose to be even more generous by electing to partake in a cold plunge into the lake after completing their chosen course to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Course options were comprised of the aptly named Super Chill 8.5, Frosty 5, Polar Express 2 and Snowflake Sprint. A distance for every cold tolerance and paddlecraft. A unique inclusion in the festivities was the Rumble for Bumble, a short and exciting team paddle relay race. Things got off to a fast start as everyone was keen on keeping the blood flowing to their extremeties. For the long distance, conditions played a major role and resulted in several DNFs but it was not for a lack of effort. It's best to know your limits in any situation and follow safety protocols. Support boats were at the ready to provide assistance to anyone in need and to ensure everyone reached the beach safely. The finishers endured the cold and the overall men and women winners of the Super Chill were crowned Ice and King and Queen!  

The low temperatures failed to chill out the strong sense of Aloha. Organizers were well prepared for the icy conditions with a fire, heaters and hot beverage options to warm paddlers and spectators alike.

Live music and food trucks preceding the awards kept the party going until the post-race warm-up gathering. Conditions aren't likely to be as cold next year but be prepared for anything at this rapidly growing event!

by Michael Markunas, Member from the SouthEast and SouthWest Regions

This November saw the launch of the Candice Appleby's first annual Green Buoy Battle sponsored by Hennessy’s. This event is already destined to be classic and a must-race for paddlers of all skill levels. 

Nearly 200 racers took part in two, 3.5 mile battles around the green navigational buoy just outside Dana Point harbor. Racers had a water start from within the harbor for a smooth one mile flat water sprint before turning into the calm waters of the pacific to complete the 1.5 mile loop around the green buoy. California’s friendly sea lions did not disappoint and were enthusiastically playing around the green buoy while racers made their turns. A few racers commented that they even heard the sea lions barking (cheering) them on. After battling around the buoy, racers rode the small bumps back to the breakwater pivoting into the harbor and sprinting the final mile back through flat water and finishing at Baby Beach. After a break for lunch, racers hit the water to do it all over again! 

In the SUP division, Thiago Giacomelli led the men with the fastest combined time, while Soryn Preston took the top spot in the women's division. Jake Keville and Rachael Tilly brought it home for the prone division.  Other notable finishers were Nater Errez & Ava Crellin who had the fastest combined times in the Male & Female surfski division, Danny Ching and Brandi Baksic were the fastest in OC1 and Saul Dobson and Ann Matteson were the fastest V1's.

For an inaugural race, the whole event ran like clockwork. Of course, world champion SUP Racer/SUP Surfer and now outrigger athlete, Candice Appleby, is no stranger to race events but for a first time event, it was impressive how it all came together.  Candice was even able to get long time sponsor of the legendary Pacific Paddle Games, Hennessey's Pub, to sponsor the Green Buoy Battle giving it that legendary feel. The libations and live music at the awards ceremony at Hennessey's later that afternoon made the day's events even more memorable. If you participated, congratulations on being able to say that you were there when it all started, and if you weren't, mark your calendars for next year, this instant classic is one you will not want to miss!  

by Janis Iverson - USA SUP Member from the SouthEast Region

The15th Annual Panama Jack Classic wrapped up the season a little later than usual this year, shifting to November as the ultimate year-end closeout race. Red flags on the gulf forced a venue change, moving the event to the sparkling tidal pool at St. Andrews State Park—a local gem tucked inside the pass and sheltered by gulf-facing jetties.

Race morning arrived with a bit of attitude. Sustained 10–15 mph winds funneled directly up the course, the tide pushed in, and boat traffic kept things interesting. Gentle? Not even close. Sporty? Absolutely.

Athletes lined up for 5k and 10k events, with the 10k featuring a technical mid-course turn sequence that kept racers sharp and wet. Winners of the distance battle earned the honor of signing the champion’s belt. The 5k course tracked the same route, minus the extra twists, but certainly wasn’t an easy paddle. A kids race followed, proving that grit comes in all sizes.

The grand finale was a four-person relay, where teams went head-to-head for the coveted Pier to Pier SUP Relay traveling trophy—complete with the engraved history of champions who came before them.

True to its reputation for good vibes and great swag, this year’s event rocked an 80s theme. Medals matched the mood, neon ruled the day, and the fashion was—well—bold. Best dressed? We couldn’t pick one. You may just have to decide for yourself.

The Goat Boater by Ellison Smith, Vice President representing the NorthEast Region

'LOSE FASTER' 

It's hard to summarize an event with so much enthusiasm and excitement in a few words, but here goes. Rob Cynowa and Megan Cynowa pour their heart and souls into creating a weekend getaway that ANY paddler will absolutely LOVE. Together, they essentially write the book on how to create a spectacular race day event. Choosing to focus solely on SUP craft, they're able to commit their time to elevating the experience. Don't just take my word for it, read the reviews from pros on PaddleGuru, they're all true. The schedule is thoughtfully planned out, facilitating imteractions with fellow paddlers which contributes to everyone truly sharing the stoke as one.

Tega Cay is known for outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community, so it's only natural that the event is hosted there by the Cynowas at Windjammer Park on Lake Wylie. The lake was created by the Catawba Dam and once used to create hydro-electric power. On day one, Technical Heats took center stage. Yes, the water is mostly flat but they have the perfect solution for that. Enter pro wakesurfer Evan Feierabend, along with his boat captain, he takes great pleasure riding some gnarly waves, creating havoc around the course! Managing the SEVEN buoy turns alone can be difficult enough at times, not to mention the beach turn. However, the waves add an extra element of unpredictability and increases the heart rate. The challenge was eagerly accepted by all.

Day two is for the 5K, 10K and fun courses. The distance race is not simply an out and back. The course requires you to utilize some navigational skills. Beginning with a beach start, straight to a buoy and shortly thereafter, into North Carolina and around an island. From there, you plot your track to a waypoint on the way into Big Allison Creek. After heading back around almost halfway into it, the next stop is Goat Island before returning back to the beach where you finish with a run through the huge jaws of a giant shark!  

Prior to each event, the hosts take care to ensure all the participants are emotionally and spiritually ready to accept all the great gifts that this sport provides. A pause for reflection and remembrance followed by a collective energy boosting moment enhances the enjoyment. Post race, the organizers encourage everyone to embark on a social cruise together so that racers of all levels have the opportunity to get to know one another which normally doesn't happen too often. I was also amazed at the number of first timers in attendance and so very enthusiastically happy for them.

Immense thanks to everyone who played a part in creating this amazing race, as well as to all the sponsors who help to ensure that the festivities continue yearly. Once you're here, it's easy to see why Goat Boater is lauded by many so be sure to make your way to this Charlotte suburb to feel the love firsthand !

Ellison Smith

Chattajack by a "Newbie"- October 25th, 2025

by Tricia Lyons, NorthWest Regional Rep 

31 miles down the Tennessee River, or as my speed coach says 32 miles.

Volunteering Friday before the race, gave an insight into the race sign up and the award ceremony. Cleaning and storing boards was a lot of fun where I found help by Michelle Feits and Adrian Angell. 

Race day! 

This race is a TEST, a test of your endurance abilities, preparedness, and mental game. I worked all season with Larry Cain and Paddle Monster to ensure my success in this race. Well it worked! I was stoked to have come in under 7 hours. The goal I had set for myself. My success is definitely credited to my draft partners Sue Butler and Ruth Ann Steen. These ladies are fierce! I was able to hang with them for most of the race but fell back in the end. 

I found others on the water like Betsy Duke, and Adrian Angell who gave me encouragement. The last hour or 4 miles were by far the hardest. That’s when your mental abilities kick in. The water slows with weed to contend with. If you’ve made it this far, why quit? After all I knew I had a prize waiting for me when I came in, my entire family, who traveled to Tennessee with me. I cried when I came in. The emotion of it all catching up with me. I DID it! I conquered something that I never even considered when I started paddle boarding. Something truly to be proud of! 

That is what this race is all about, conquering the hard things.

Team work

Triumph

Victory!   

The best part? Watching the awards ceremony! 

Men’s SUP winners:

1st Jake Portwood, 2nd Tim Oliver, 3rd John Batson 

Women’s SUP winners:

1st Whitney Stephenson, 2nd Madeline Leblanc, 3rd Ariel Amaral

5 year Buckle Winners

Nea Lee, Michelle Higdon, Jennifer Flanigan, Pat Ballasch, Phillipe Asselin and MANY others. What an accomplishment Congratulations! 

The number one question everyone asks…will I do it again? That’s a resounding YES! 

If you haven’t tried Chattajack I suggest you consider adding it to your bucket list. 

Tricia Lyons 

10th Annual B'More SUP Cup - July 12th, 2025

by Ellison Smith, Board Member representing our NorthEast Region

Paddlers from surrounding states including Virginia, Pennsylvania and Deleware came together to participate in the first SUP race in the Baltimore Inner Harbor! A historic day for Baltimore City and the paddle community. It was also a time to celebrate the waterway restoration efforts of recent years. The event has been the long-envisioned dream of B'More SUP proprietor, Jessie Benson. With two locations there, paddlers have been enjoying the city scape while engaging in a variety of fun activities. But never before in a race.

In the morning, participants gathered at West Shore Park and the races started with the Maryland Science Center serving as the backdrop. The starting line was drawn between two huge flamingos and the 5K course followered the northern harbor shoreline to Fells Point. There, a purple duck served as the turnaround in an alley, before returning along the same route. 10K racers continued to Canton, in the West Channel and crossed the Patapsco River at the Northwest Harbor. From there, the chartered course rounded Fort McHenry, to the turn directly over the I-95 tunnel. The return west on the same side skirted the south side of the harbor and back to the finish.

The day began partly cloudy before quiclky tunring sunny and humid with low winds. It was such a great joy to paddle with everyone in city waters. Especially those for whom it was their first race and to those who experienced paddling there for the first time .

I love paddling the Inner Harbor and if you ask me, it's one of the best ways to see the city.