Key West Paddle Classic 2018

What another great time at the 2018 Key West Paddle Classic.  Forecast before race day was calling for relatively light winds out of the NW at only 5-10 mph, but come race day that wasn't the case to say the least! Super strong sustained N winds from 15-22 mph pushed serious chop and force against the paddlers making the grueling 12 mile course around the historic island no easy task. 

N2 team racers Ryan Pena, Will Vacha, and Conrad Charles entered the race using custom 11'2" N2 Sessions boards.  These boards proved to work great in the chop and wind, letting the racers cut through the chop waves, and balance better in the relentless wind and swirly water.  Will took home first place and Ryan 2nd in the overall standings for recreation class, and Conrad not far behind taking 5th.  Will and Ryan both finished just shy of 3 hrs. 

After the race TEAM N2 got to enjoy Duval street and the sights and sounds of beautiful Key West, not to mention the delicious Caribbean Rum! We also got to get out and use the new Adventure SUP boards doing a little paddle-fishing on the amazing flats that surround the lower keys.  We hooked up with a few snapper, jacks, and cudas while gliding over the pristine crystal clear water.  What an amazing trip, we will be back for our 5th consecutive year next year and we can't wait! 

Big thanks again for Lazy Dog Key West for putting on another amazing paddle event in the most picture perfect place to hold a distance paddle race, Key West Florida! Who ever is thinking of pushing themselves to the physical limit, give this one a try next year! ;)