East of Maui EWE Spirit Chesapeake Stand Up Challenge
By Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President
Photos courtesy: Ted Morgan
The East of Maui EWE Spirit Chesapeake Stand Up,Challenge is an annual event that takes place in Annapolis, MD at the mouth of the Severn River. Hosted by Eastport Yacht Club and organized by Mark Bandy and Mark Saunders, former Eastofmaui Boardshop store owners for over 21 years. The Boardshop sadly closed it's doors in early 2025, however the loyal customer base still remains heavily invested in local SUP events. I purchased my first rigid race board there in 2023 and am forever grateful for their assistance in acquiring it and all the knowledgeable advice. Originally, this race was comprised completely of SUP surf boards. As the years went on and paddlers transitioned to race boards, the surf category is still included to pay homage to how it began.
The event is named in honor of Geoff Ewenson who passed away in 2020, former unforgettable exrtrodinary sail and SUP enthusiast. The Foundation that bears his name and benefits from registrant donations, assists those facing hardships with financial and social support. President Mary Iliff Ewenson, his widow, brings joy to others in memoriam and remains committed to helping those in need.
The threat of impending storms prompted a change of course from what everyone had grown accustomed to in previous years. The new course featured a 1.4 mile loop around an obtuse triangle for the short course, three loops for the five mile and five loops for seven mile. Conditions were flat as a pancake, with some boat traffic beginning about halfway through. The air was saturated which increased the difficulty substantially despite the low winds. Paddling on and through water takes a toll, although completing the challenge is very satisfying. In addition, the affair included a youth race. Those included were the children of the adult racers who passed the fun down to them.
Following the race, there were breakfast burritos, watermelon, mimosas and bloody marys for everyone's enjoyment. The live band kept everyone entertained until the awards presentation in which the locals shined. It was another great day in Maryland's capital city to stand up to the Challenge
