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!