Parades and Sprints A Winters Paddle Day In San Rafael
This past Saturday was one of those fine winter days that almost makes summer irrelevant. The day started with the first of our winter paddle sprint races and wrapped up with a parade! If you have not heard about our sprint series you are missing out on some good low pressure fun.
We set up a super short 200 meter sprint course that has you racing in reality against yourself. For $10 we provide all the gear and with no fixed start time the pressure is off. We open the course for an hour or more and you can take as many laps as your body will allow. When you start is up to you. Try surfski (Epic V7 or Epic V5), kayak, prone, or SUP or any other paddle-craft that suits your pleasure.
We have an amazing fleet of toys at your disposal but you are of course welcome to race your own board as well. Race with your dog or get the whole family in on the act on our SUPSquatch (pictured below). Speaking of families kids 13 and under race for free!
We also have a great short course as part of our normal races that is perfect for first time racers. With a nice 2-mile short course it’s something you know you can tackle. Our next race is December 16th right here in San Rafael. More information on that race – click here.
We have a little secret to share; paddling is better in the winter. Why is that? The wind is simply non-existent opening up the San Francisco Bay to adventures not available in our blustery summers. While the days are shorter from the hours of 10am to 4pm it is often the same temperature as you would find in summer in San Francisco. So get on down here and take advantage of what is some of the best paddling you will find anywhere.
After racing this past weekend we were treated to the annual San Rafael lighted boat parade. We keep the shop open late and invite our neighbors to come on down and take in the parade. The San Rafael parade is one of the countries largest and filled with some amazing displays of imagination. All in all it was a great day spent with friends and neighbors celebrating the amazing bay we call home.
We wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season and hope to see you soon – preferably on the water.