International Canoe Federation to Host Stand Up Paddleboard World Cup At Nathan Benderson Park Oct 13-15
SUP Athletes From Around the World Participating in Races for Big Prize Money
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.
###
About Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy
Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy’s vision of Nathan Benderson Park is to serve as a global, innovative, and premier destination that welcomes and connects people, while fostering a healthy, sustainable and safe environment. NBPC is a 501(c)3 non-profit whose mission is to manage and promote Nathan Benderson Park as a world-class recreational destination, enhancing the quality of life for our community and generating economic impact for our region. Sarasota County has entrusted the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy with the complete day-to-day care of this 600-acre community asset. As the stewards of the Park, the Conservancy tends to the complex maintenance, visitor services, event management, outreach programs and so much more. For more, please visit: https://nathanbendersonpark.org/
About Visit Sarasota County
Visit Sarasota County (VSC) is the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County where tourism is the top industry. It is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program, a program of the Destination Management Association International (DMAI). VSC meets the highest standards of professionalism, leadership, fiscal management, and ethical principles. Visit www.visitsarasota.com for more information.
Media Contact
Knight Strategic Communications
Mia Kurecki
941.408.3742