Charles Island SUP CUP

by Kyle Ann

(founding member & Regional Rep from Rhode Island)

The stoke was STRONG on June 17th at Walnut Beach in Milford CT.

Sup Racing made its return to New England in a BIG way.

The 8th running of the Charles Island Sup Cup was back after a 2 year hiatus.

The day was forecasted to be Stormy, Windy and Rainy BUT turned out to be perfect!

Rained on the drive to Milford and again on the way home. But during the race the Sun appeared and the rain took a break.

The winds were just the just the right amount of challenging, although some described it as paddling in a “gale” LOL.

Many thanks to Jack Egan, Surfrider Foundation, Tina Pritchard and Paddle & Scoot for sponsoring this event.

Well organized with Good Vibes and Great Swag!

This race had everything you could ask for, awesome finisher metals, sweet trophies, FOOD! and a fun funky band that played all afternoon.

There was something for everyone, first timers to seasoned racers. Three races were offered, 5 mile course around Charles Island and two 2.5 mile courses, one for Race boards and one for Recreational Sups.

I think that encouraging those new to the sport and giving them their own course to shine on really sets this event apart. This type of friendly, supportive and all inclusive event will grow the sport of Sup Racing.

Awards were given out in all races, both Overall and Age Group. So everyone had a shot at some glory and bragging rights.

After the Main Event, the Sprint Race was on!  Everyone was welcomed to enter and test their speed in this Single elimination event.

It was the luck of the draw who you went up against and it was tons of fun to watch.

The Grand Prize was a CUSTOM Quickblade carbon paddle with SUPer cool Surfrider graphics generously donated by Jim Terrell.

Just a fabulous day that will be remembered by all. 

This event is always held the mid June so be on the look out for Charles Island SUP Cup 2024 and make sure to sign up