Race Description

Because of forecasted strong west winds, the Paddlefest has been moved to the nearby Machete Flats Landing.  Like at Russ Landing, the course runs through the marsh and is very scenic. But it is also much narrower, provides significant  protection from wind and waves and has far fewer oysters! Come and have a blast!

Paddlers have their choice of short (3.3 miles) or long (6.3 miles) race courses on the scenic and unspoiled Harbor River. Several  of the fastest paddlers in the East are scheduled to attend. Both competition and course are first class!

Go to "Directions" and "Course Map" tabs for more information.

Post Race Awards Ceremony

 - The post race ceremony will be held in the Machete Park parking lot.

-  Award certificates will be given out 3 deep to race winners.

- The post-race get together at Brody's Bar and Grill is cancelled. Free beer and chili will have to wait until next year.

- The raffle (for both a $500+ Epic Wing paddle and $500+ ZRE SUP paddle) will take place at the post race  meeting.  (Extra tickets are $5).

Net Proceeds go to Beaufort Water Search and Rescue 

The BWSAR provides safety and support (buoy placement, leading the race) to the Paddlefest. Without them, there would be no Paddlefest!

Please know that the BWSAR is an all-weather, all-volunteer organization whose missions are to 1. help boaters  in distress and 2. conduct search and rescue missions to support the County Sheriff's Office, DNR, Coast Guard, and state and federal law agencies. Your contributions to the Paddlefest are going to a worthy cause!

Fees

Adult: $50. Youth: $20

Note: Registration closes at noon, Thursday Oct. 28, 2021

Raffle Prizes. (extra tickets $5 each). 

-Epic Kayak Paddle. Pick any model from the Epic website. Retail value approximately $525. Shipping included. 

-ZRE SUP Paddle. Pick any model from the ZRE website. Retail value approximately $550. Shipping included.

- $50 gift certificate and five performance hats from Tim Lovett at Higher Ground Outfitters

Other Good Things

- Gatorade, water, and snacks on site after the race.

Race Rules

- PFDs must be worn. Inflatable PFDs are OK, but also must be worn.

- No bare feet please. Paddling shoes or sneakers should be worn, because there may be oysters along the shoreline.

- Race time limit is two hours. A BWSAR boat will help you get "home" if necessary.

Classes

- Each class is broken down into Open (below 50), Master (50 to 64), Master (65 to 74) and Master (75+).

- Boat classes are primarily based on the Sound Rowers System (see below). Go SEPSeries.org to learn more about the system and/or see  a list of classes and boats.

Please contact me if you have a question about the class for your boat.