BlackBeltPaddlerChallenge2025

GENERAL INFO

Announcement: Athletes, Friends and Families do not miss our Heiva I Miami Cultural Festival taking place on race day. All BBP Athletes have free entrance to compete in the Ancestral Games. And the festival is free for the community. Visit www.heivamiami.com and for more information on how to join the ancestral games email monica@iscprgroup.com.

We would like to invite you to the second annual "Black Belt Paddler Challenge" taking place in Key Biscayne, Miami, FL on April 19th, 2025. The Black Belt Paddler Challenge is a spectacular canoe paddling race that merges the allure of the ocean with the pulse of competition. Drawing inspiration from the legendary races in Tahiti and Hawaii, we're excited to bring this tradition to Miami, Florida, for an unforgettable experience and witness top athletes from around the globe compete individually to earn the coveted Black Belt Paddler Title!

What is a Black Belt?

Historically, in various arts of self defense, a Black Belt is one who holds the rating of EXPERT. But not only that, a Black Belt is one who remained dedicated, committed and demonstrated perseverance over the years. We are bringing this vibe to the paddling world and testing our limits to see who is the true Black Belt Paddler! Are you the next Black Belt Paddler?

The first edition of the Black Belt Paddler Challenge is expected to be one of the Longest Running Paddlesport Races in Florida (V1, OC-1, Surfski, Prone Paddleboard, Standup Paddleboard and Kayak).

Long Course (approximately 12 miles) - Cash Money Prize for 1st place in Open Category (separate by gender) with more than 5 athletes

Short Course (approximately 7 miles)

PFD's and leashes are required.

Important Notes on the event:

***Pre-Registration is highly suggested. It will help eliminate delays on race morning as well as cut down on paddler error while registering with our online format.

***Lunch will be provided with registration. Additional Lunch tickets will be available for sale.

***Giveaway: Already included with your registration fee, the Black Belt Paddler Challenge will boast the best Giveaways of the East Coast…Don't lose time and do your race registration to have a chance to win great prizes from our sponsors and vendors.

***No refunds

***Hotel Discount:

Available Rooms - Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South

Don't Procrastinate

***Paddlers are required to know the course and behave in a sportsmanlike manner… please come to the assistance of fellow paddlers in distress.

Black Belt Paddler Challenge Award Policy!

***Numbers required per category based on PaddleGuru Registration

Number of racers Awards Presented

1-4 participants First Place Only

5-8 participants First and Second Only

8-14 Participants First, Second, Third

15 or more First, Second, Third and Fourth if numbers allow

Notes:

OC-2, SS-2 No Age Categories

V1 short course No Age Categories

Kayak short Course No Age Categories

SUP -2 + No Age or Gender Categories

***Note: Walkup registration is ok, but walkups will not get t-shirts. T-shirts are a priority for pre-registered participants. T-shirts are included.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Sponsor partnerships will directly contribute to the safety and success of the race and overall race course. Sponsor and partner support ensures the implementation of all logistics and the creation of an an engaging event that will challenge participants and provide opportunities for maximum exposure for all brands and companies involved.

BENEFITS

Brand Exposure: Receive prominent exposure, including logos on event materials, banners, websites, and promotional materials.

Marketing Opportunities: Leverage the event for marketing and advertising purposes, reaching a wider and more engaged audience. This includes mentions in press releases, media campaigns, and social media promotion.

Audience Engagement: Sponsors have the opportunity to engage directly with event participants and attendees. This engagement can help build brand loyalty and create meaningful connections with potential customers.

Association with Positive Values: Enhance the company's image by associating it with positive values such as community engagement, cultural celebration, or sportsmanship.

Networking: Gain access to exclusive networking opportunities, where one can connect with other sponsors, key stakeholders, and industry leaders.

Lead Generation: Collect leads and contact information from event attendees, which can be valuable for future marketing efforts.

Product Showcase: Unleash the opportunity to showcase products or services at the event, allowing for direct interaction with potential customers.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Sponsoring community or charitable events can fulfill a company's CSR goals and demonstrate its commitment to giving back to the community.