The second annual Kaua‘i Surfski Championships will be held at Kalapaki Beach, Saturday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. in conjunction with the 8th annual Kalapaki Canoe Competition and Stand Up Paddleboard races. The day starts at 8 a.m. with
The second annual Kaua‘i Surfski Championships will be held at Kalapaki Beach, Saturday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. in conjunction with the 8th annual Kalapaki Canoe Competition and Stand Up Paddleboard races.
The day starts at 8 a.m. with the first four-man canoe surfing heat with action taking place throughout the day, states the SurfSki Kaua‘i website.
Dylan Thomas said in an email that although the sport is predominantly offshore racing, this event at Kalapaki Beach focuses on the sprint technique and surf skills of the paddler, bringing the sport to the public’s eye by being a short course and within view during all stages of the race.
The surfski event features competitors lined up at the water’s edge, leaping into their Surfski kayaks at the start. This is followed by the initial sprint to establish position before Turn 1, Thomas said.
Following the turn, a sequence of two legs of chase and jostling for position ends with the final leg being run through the surf zone as competitors head for the beach and a short sprint across the sand, between the finish flags.
He said, combined with the canoe competition, the day should provide a visual spectacle for visitors and locals.
Visit www.surfskikauai.com for more registration and more information.
