Flying Fish Summer Challenge 2026

By Michael Markunas

Photos Courtesy: John Meskauskas

The first weekend in August saw dozens of racers gather at Jensen Beach on Florida's Treasure Coast to answer that age old question that has bedeviled philosophers and arm-chair athletes for years: can fish really fly?

The 2026 Flying Fish Summer Challenge held on the beach adjacent the beautiful River Palm Cottages was the scene for this year's challenge. SUP-ers had a choice of either two or four loops around a 1.25 mile buoy course (2.5 miles or 5 miles respectively) and sit-down craft had a slightly more challenging 6.5 mile course.

The sit-down craft and five-mile SUP racers launched first and had the benefit of calm seas and minimal wind leaving the Florida heat as the biggest challenge. Now, locals know that Florida can get hotter than a stolen tamale in summer, but it's not the heat that gets you, it the humidity. Fortunately, by the time the leaders in the SUP race rounded the half-way mark, a slight breeze kicked up just enough to help cool down the racers and give them some welcome relief for the final stretch.

Even with the breeze, the Florida heat proved the great equalizer and except for the lead pack, the race line quickly became spread out. The buoys were comfortably positioned with no hairpin turns, but even an easy turn in 90-degree heat feels challenging. Fortunately, for the family and friends watching from the shore, the fishing pier between the first and last buoy turns provided an opportunity to cheer on their favorite athlete and catch some great action shots. Because the pier was also parallel to the finish line, spectators could also give the racers that last bit of encouragement before they crossed the finish line and finally got to jump in the water for a well-deserved cool down.

In the five- mile men's open division, Jake Portwood (#1 overall), Jake Graham (#2 overall) and Packet Casey (#3 overall) swept the top three spots proving that fish really can fly. They were followed closely by Stephanie Shidler, Kim Barnes and Nea Lee for the top three spots in the open women's division. In the 51+ division, Steven Bernstein, Alex Somoano and Michael Markunas proved that age is just a number, followed by Julianne Veal, Debbie Carrillo in first and second place for the women's 51+ division.

The 2.5 mile SUP racers followed right after the first race and had slightly more breeze deal with, but conditions stayed favorable for the rest of the morning. In the 2.5 mile men's open division Lenin Henderson, Jonathan Jordan and Alvaro Torres threw down for the top three spots, while Victoria Burgess (#2 overall), Haley Stumvoll and Amanda Portwood snagged the top three for the women's division. In the 51+ men's division, Mark Hewitt (#1 overall), Bert Puig and Steve Drolet showed the young'uns how is it done by flying their fish to the top of the heap, while Holly Crowder and Theresa Zarelli took the top two spots and Martine Brown and Brenda Blanton tied for third.

After all the racers had crossed the finish line, the funnest spectator race of the day kicked off with the kids' fun race. A variety of pre-teen and teens borrowed their parents' boards and paddles and set out for a one buoy turn race. The parents were thrilled to see their kids compete, but the look of excitement and joy on the faces of the young racers as they crossed the finish line was the highlight of the day and got the biggest cheers from the crowd.

The awards ceremony and lunch was held afterwards in a giant palapa hut on the River Palm's property where folks could enjoy a cold IPA sponsored by Jai Alai brewing company with prizes provide by Blue Line Surf and Flying Fish Board Company. You could tell it was a great event because long after the awards were handed out, people stayed to hang out and enjoy the afternoon. So, if you missed the race this year and find yourself in Florida in August next year, book a cottage at the River Palm Cottages in Jensen Beach and join the hottest (literally) race in south Florida and come watch the fish fly. Hope to see you next year!

Ohio River Paddlefest 25th Anniversary

By Ellison Smith

USA SUP Vice President

The LARGEST PADDLECRAFT PARTY in world history was achieved by Adventure Crew in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 1, 2026. 1440 participants! OFFICIALLY AMAZING!

Paddlefest on the Ohio River is organized by ADVENTURE CREW, a non-profit that connects teens to nature and each other through outdoor activities. Congratulations to all the paddlers in attendance, safety personnel, sponsors and volunteers and who helped make this historic event possible! We did it!

OUTDOORS FOR ALL. Paddlefest is Adventure Crew’s largest public fundraiser. Founded in 2013, they raise more than $100,000 each year, providing 9100 hours of outdoor programming for over 900 junior and senior high school students across 33 schools in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Upon arrival in Cincinnati on Friday, I headed to the Outdoors for All Expo, sponsored by Cincinnati MINI. It's a free party that had something for everyone! Exhibits from local parks, outdoor outfitters, adventure experts and environmentally minded organizations. As well as live music, local beer and food trucks.

On Saturday, everyone convened at Schmidt boat ramp to get on the water. First, race directors Adrian Angell and Gerry Seavo James welcomed the crowd and thanked Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval for his support of the event. Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine and all the volunteers were also recognized for making the record breaking day possible. Amanda Szarmack and Jerry Tolstyka Jr. along with the race day crew brought the positive vibes and we can't thank them enough for all their contributions. Racers led the way followed by everyone else of all paddlecraft in a mass procession on the river. It was truly a sight to behold. What a time to be alive and serve witness to this day that won't soon be forgotten.

Included in the Paddlefest activities was a SUP race on the Ohio River directed by USA SUP Regional Representative Co-Director and Community Committee member Adrian Angell. Entrants could choose a 15K or celebratory 25K course, commerative to the 25th anniversary.

Originating from the Schmidt boat ramp and terminating at the the Riverside boat ramp, paddlers navigated the river in a west-southwest direction, all while alternating between the cities of Cincinnati, Ohio and Covington, Kentucky. I always love paddling in two states during a race and this was the fourth occurrence.

The flow, albeit relatively slow, carried us for a fast and fun ride but not before a brief charge up and around a buoy to get the heart rate up. Soon after the start, Eri Tenório took off well in front and I decided to draft the second closest paddler, Tony Galang, for a short period of time. As things progressed, I then found myself in a battle with Joe Suvak for several kilometers. Under bridges and enduring train bridge alarms, we never gave or took any quarter. Pushing ourselves to the limit, I managed a hard earned place on the podium. Not sure when or if I'll ever have the opportunity to share honors with Eri or Tony again, so I'll savor this one until the next race. USA SUP President Linda McCoy also received a medal for her efforts on the women's podium! Never before had we shared a race day until now.

by Tricia Lyons, NorthWest Regional Rep

The 4th annual Great Montana SUP SPRINT took place in Superior, Montana, offering a full weekend of paddleboard racing, community events, and cash prizes along the Clark Fork River. Hosted by the Mineral County Recreation Club, the race featured a diverse lineup of races catering to both beginner and expert paddlers.

Weekend Highlights

• Friday Night Clinic: A pre-race skills clinic hosted by Tricia Lyons with assistance from Travis Prewitt, where participants shared the water with a local moose family while learning paddling and racing tips.

• Saturday Race Day: Started with a morning Yoga session, a derby ball launch, and a river trail fun run.

• • The Sprints: Competitive amateur, youth, and pro sprint races.
  • Novelty Races: Included the "Better Together" tandem race and a "Super Hero" up-river race requiring participants to wear capes.
  • Grand Finale: Concluded with the highly anticipated Kings and Queens relay race.

• Sunday Community Float: A casual 5-mile celebratory float down the scenic Clark Fork River to wrap up the weekend.

 Event Location

The event was centered around the river access points and community trails in Superior, Montana

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

Charles Island SUP Cup 2026

By Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President

Photos courtesy: Harper Photograph

Day 1

NEW this year! Time Trials

One half mile each way around a buoy from the beach. Easy right? Not so much, add in some stiff crosswinds and it's a real challenge! Thankful to be have trained in such conditions though not yet hitting my full stride this season, I was able to complete the challenge in a reasonable amount of time. Taking what I could, when I could without taking a swim and having confidence in my training. Challenging yourself is always very rewarding after you've finished the task. Got to see some of the best show everyone how it's done. Having a bonus day with everyone made the weekend extra special!

Day 2

The Charles Island SUP CUP holds a very special place on the calendar and in the hearts of many paddlers. It is a uniquely cultivated spectacle shaped by some of the most passionate minds in the sport. Bill Harper of Harper Photograph, Joe Galiatsatos and Bryan Hughan capture the essence of the event in all of it's magnificent glory. Their artistic use of drones and cameras is uncanny. The recordings serve to bring the stoke to those watching on their devices from wherever they may be. Walnut Beach shines bright as the water from the Long Island Sound reaches the shell filled beach. Milford Mayor Rich Smith recognizes the significance of the event and it's lasting impact on the community. The 11th anniversary of the race, as in previous years, brought participants from up and down the east coast, ranging from Canada all the way to Florida.

The competition was stiff, but that didn't keep any others. For some it was the first or second entry ever in a competition, for it's not all about that, but more so the community element and shared stoke that SUP brings to countless souls. The course begins with a running start from the beach, ornamented with the home flags of every participant, to the first unique element. A golden buoy which holds a special prize for the first reach it. Paddlers continue on to Charles Island, the race's namesake. The 15 acre island is named after English settler Charles Deal who bought it in 1657. From there, it's back to the beach for the second element, a turnaround on the beach before heading back out to a large buoy. A step back turn there then it's on to the final stretch. Back towards shore, rounding another buoy and parallel to shore, prior to a series of three technical turns right before running back onto shore and across the finish. Spectators love the action as they cheer loudly for all but a little louder for their favorites.

One cannot say enough positive things about race director and Surfrider Foundation Connecticut executive Jack Egan and everything he's done uplift the sport and the community. He is deeply invested and puts forth an incredible amount of effort. He takes care to engage and listen to anyone about SUP. Thank you Scoot & Paddle for continuing to support the event year after year and ensuring it continues. A staple in the town, they provided rentals to anyone who wished to get out and enjoy the many benefits of paddling. Cheers to Athletic Brewing Company for providing the non-alcoholic awards to quench the the thirst. Just as big a thanks to everyone who donated their time in making it happen on both days. I'm forever grateful to Bob Fournier for welcoming me into his home during my stay. I was treated royally as he invited me to dinner with his family and chill time in the pool. Haven't been yet? Do yourself a humongous favor and get on it ASAP!

Coosa River Ramble

By Matthew Carrier, Southeast Region Member

The inaugural Coosa River Ramble is in the books and what a way to kick off a new Southeast regional race. It was hot, it was calm and it was a lot of fun! The race offers something for just about everyone: SUP 5k and 10K, Kayak 5k and 10K, Recreational 5K, and a 24k.

OC1/OC2/Surfski/Sea Kayak course. In all, there were 55 racers coming from the Florida panhandle (thanks to USA SUP board member Michellle “Feisty” Feits), Huntsville, Mississippi and Tennessee. We had racers from 12 years old to senior master’s level aged. The race committee provided plenty of fruit and Danish for breakfast and a hearty 5 course BBQ lunch provided by Butts-To-Go in Pell City.

The SUPs had a beach start while those using a double bladed paddles had a wet start. Each course took racers along a shoreline of beautiful homes and included a small island circumnavigation and 2 flamingo buoy turns, the mascot for this year’s race. There was great competition on the course and camaraderie at the finish line. What made this race extra special, at least for me, is watching the support each racers gives one another as this is a tight-knit paddle family regardless of where they call home. Trophies were awarded to the top 3 in each category and 3 special prizes were given to show appreciation for their subject matter expertise and help along with the planning process.

Pell City’s lakeside park is an excellent venue offering a beach as mentioned as well as plenty of other soft water entry points, a huge pavilion that was our race HQ right next to the beach with adjacent parking, clean bathrooms close by, ample areas for spectating, photography and drone pilots capturing the race. There are plenty of options for the non-racers including a huge kids splash pad and playground, walking trails and plenty of shade under the oaks. The park is only a few minutes from I20 and the hotels. There are local eateries all over including several lakefront options.

Of course, being the first edition, there were a couple of small bumps in the road and lessons learned but at the end of the day, fun was had by all and no one left hungry! I can’t tell you how excited I am about the 2027 edition, and the planning has already begun. We are looking to add a Sunday event, be it a technical race, a leisure paddle to an awesome lakefront lunch or a group hike in the foothills of the Appalachians.

Navarre Paddle Classic 5th Anniversary

By Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President

Photos courtesy: C. Greene Visions

I hadn't visited the Florida panhandle until last weekend and my first time couldn't have been better. Michelle Feits has created a can't-miss event on the white sands of the Emerald Coast. This thin strip of land bordering the Gulf Coast is the perfect tourist destination and it lives up to it's name. The sunlight's blue wavelengths penetrating the shallow coastal waters combined with the yellow wavelengths reflecting upward off the fine quartz sand gives off an emerald green color to the eye of the perceiver. It's Florida's most relaxing place, perfect for Maryland's chillest paddleboarder.

Michelle has poured her heart, soul and creative mind into making the weekend an experience paddlers talk about long after and insist their friends also attend. Along with the assistance of her local community, she successfully executed one of the most unique races on the calendar.

2026 marked the 5th anniversary of this ever so popular event. The beneficiary is the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center which is dedicated to protecting the magnificent creatures and their habitats. It was a must for me to support and participate in the competition because the center works tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate my spirit animal.

All crafts and ages were invited to partake in the Classic which offered 1, 3, 6 and 12 mile courses along with a very cool paddleboard jousting event on day one. The fun continued with technical and relay races with mixed crafts comprising each team for even more thrills on day two. Starts began from the beach for SUP in the distance and technical races. Both included buoy turns near the Navarre Beach Causeway in the current of the Santa Rosa Sound. A beach turn was included in the tech race, a challenging aspect I always enjoy. I earned a top ten finish in the 6 mile and my team came together nicely to snag second in the relay.

There was much to see and do throughout the weekend for everyone who came from every state stretching from South Carolina to Texas. I can't thank Janis Marie enough for taking in this weary traveler and treating me to her southern hospitality. I reunited with members of my extended paddle family which I hadn't seem for some time and we bonded over the memories we were experiencing live. We're all very grateful to the help and support of all the volunteers and sponsors. For without you, there are no such events. Shout out to Andy D's on Navarre Beach for hosting the post race festivities. Try your best to make it here next year everyone!

Kumu'ohu Challenge 2026

by Ellison Smith, USA SUP Vice President

Hayden Miller @haydenonthewatwer

This year marked the 20th anniversary of this tradition. 15 years after the SUP category was introduced in 2011. Relocated from the historic Washington Canoe Club boathouse that is currently undergoing rehabilitation to the Columbia Island Marina and featuring a new course. The event took place exactly three months since the catastrophic Potomac Interceptor sewer line failure released over 240 million gallons of untreated sewage into one of the largest rivers on the east coast. Since mid March, water sampling test results have been increasingly acceptable and recreational advisories lifted. The following are quotes from Kathy Summers and the WCC regarding the race and the first edition of the new SUP award.

Kathy Summers -

"The Kumu'ohu Challenge was started by WCC member Mitch Potter, who wanted to host the first paddle race of the Mid-Atlantic racing season while keeping fees as low as possible. His goal was simple: create a day of great racing and community. That meant an after-party for sure—but no fancy awards or race swag.

Why “Kumu’ohu”? Mitch and his wife Amy had hoped to get the Foggy Bottom Pub to sponsor the race. Since they were outrigger racers themselves, they chose a Hawaiian name that best translated to “Foggy Bottom,” landing on “Kumu’ohu.” The sponsorship didn’t come through—but the name stuck."

WCC -

“The WCC is proud to announce the Kathy Summers SUP Award, recognizing the fastest man and woman in the 12’6” and 14’ classes. Kathy Summers brought SUP to WCC, and this award honors her lasting contributions to both the club and the broader SUP community.”

It was a relatively calm day on the river with warm temperatures, low winds and little boat traffic. The flow of air traffic to and from Reagan National Airport was almost constant overhead as paddlers navigated the course from the start at the Navy and Marine Memorial, up to the Theodore Island pedestrian bridge, back past the start, then down halfway down along East Potomac Park before returning to the finish. The field consisted of paddlers traveling from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and southeast VA who joined some first-time racers as well as those returning. April Zilg was present to participate in the OC-1 category and afterwards she shared her skills in instructing a clinic. Congrats to Jack Ballard and Regan Littell in etching their names onto the first Kathy Summers Award and to all who participated on this wonderful day.

 

The Paddle for Oahu

by NorthEast Member Josette Lata

The Paddle for Oahu was held on May 2nd in Seaside Heights NJ, the first race of the SUP season in the NorthEast. The race required participants to donate to the Lahui Foundation that provides flood relief such as food, helps farmers, and directs people to resources to help rebuild their homes which were affected by historic flooding. The event featured 2-mile and 5-mile races with participants heading North to circumnavigate West Point Island where conditions were very choppy and many people had to kneel through the chop. 

Despite being on protected flat water, the race was demanding, with many paddlers falling into the 48 degree bay. Everyone pushed through and enjoyed a pot luck meal which people brought themselves and laughter. The race had much support from Seaside Heights fire and rescue with 2 jet skis and the race directors own boat to make sure no one needed help in the cold temps. 

The race had about 30 people and it donated about $1500 to the foundation and was matched by the Surfers Environmental Alliance which is "Committed to the cultural and environmental integrity of the sport of surfing.” They support the Belmar Beach Bash, Surfers Healing and ran the beloved NY SEA paddle. Kevin Kliner an avid SUP master donated the awesome T-shirts. This race symbolizes the stoke that little NJ has. We all were affected by Hurricane Sandy in one way or another and every little bit helps.

The Treasure Coast Paddle Battle
by Troy Hendricks, North Central Regional Rep

The Treasure Coast Paddle Battle in Fort Pierce, FL, successfully kicked off the East Coast SUP season.

The event featured 10k and 5k races, with the 10k course starting on the ocean, passing through the Fort Pierce channel, and concluding at Jaycee Park. Conditions were particularly challenging this year; Race Director Victoria Burgess described the water as "sporty," with open ocean winds reaching 20 MPH. These conditions led approximately ten paddlers, including two USA SUP regional representatives, to switch from the 10k to the 5k course.

The 5k race followed a coat-hook-shaped course with a beach start and the same finish line as the 10k. Despite being on flat water, the race was demanding, as one segment headed directly into the 20 MPH winds, while others required paddlers to battle to stay on course.

New this year was the Sunday Technical Race. After setting the buoys, Victoria turned the coordination of the heats over to John Meskauskas. Conditions remained tough; the women’s division featured a single winner-take-all heat, while the men competed in three heats to determine the final.