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
