SUP Athletes From Around the World Participating in Races for Big Prize Money
SARASOTA COUNTY, FL (October 3, 2023) – Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), one of the fastest- growing
international sports, will be showcased October 13-15 in Sarasota County when the International
Canoe Federation and Visit Sarasota County host the SUP World Cup at Nathan Benderson Park.
Spectators are welcome to watch the events for free and enjoy the festive atmosphere with food
trucks, vendors and a beer tent.
Athletes from around the world will compete in three professional hard board and inflatable events
including 10K distance, 200-meter sprint and 800-meter technical races for prize money of $3,400 in
each race. A recreational 5K paddle and costume contest will also be held and is open to all
groups, ages, and experience levels. Athletes who register for the professional events will be
invited to practice at the event venue on October 12 and attend a welcome party in the evening.
Registration will close soon, so SUP athletes and recreational paddle participants are encouraged
to sign up now on the paddleguru.com website.
The 5K race is a rare opportunity for recreational paddlers to be part of an international
competition while having fun and building team unity. It is a great activity for companies looking
for team-building ideas, families, and social clubs. With Halloween around the corner, the optional
costume contest adds to the playful atmosphere. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume and
best group theme. Scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, the 5K is BYOB (bring your own
board).
Professional races will begin at 8 a.m. on October 13 and will be held each day throughout the
event. The full schedule is available online here.
“Hosting a SUP World Cup in Sarasota is such an incredible opportunity for all paddlers, both
professional and amateur. As an avid competitor and 2x ICF World Champion, I’m excited to race the
world sup cup at Nathan Benderson Park for the first time,” said 3x SUP world champion Fiona Wylde.
“I am happy to see how inclusive this race is as there are junior events, master’s events,
and different length courses to accommodate different skill levels. I look forward to racing my
best and of course, always having fun while on the racecourse!”
The global SUP market size is expected to reach $2.39 billion by 2030, according to a recent
research report by Skyquest. The growing popularity of water sports, rise in adventure tourism and interest in environmentally friendly activities are among the fueling the sport’s growth.
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