First-Ever Stand-Up Paddleboarding Championships and Charity World Record Attempt set to make waves on the English Riviera

The English Riviera is set to make history on 31 August 2024, as around 1,000 stand-up paddle (SUP) boarders gather for a world record attempt in the Great Big Paddle Board Parade, raising funds for the RNLI, Above Water and Rowcroft Hospice.

Gliding across the clear waters of the stunning South Devon coastline, participants will not only be contributing to a noble cause but also showcasing the English Riviera as the UK’s leading destination for stand-up paddleboarding. This is just the beginning of an exciting lineup of SUP events that promise to elevate the region’s status in the international paddling community.

Following the world record attempt, the English Riviera will host the inaugural SUPERCHAMPS event from 27 to 29 September 2024. This groundbreaking festival is the first step in a five-year vision to establish the English Riviera, as an international destination to SUP. The event promises a vibrant celebration of stand-up paddleboarding, catering to everyone from beginners to elite athletes.

The SUPERCHAMPS will feature a diverse range of races and activities designed to engage participants of all ages and skill levels. From the thrilling 150m sprint to the junior and first-time races, there’s something for everyone. For those seeking more of a challenge, longer technical courses will be available, along with timed events that push the limits of endurance. The Championships will also host the official SUP Water Polo Tournament, adaptive SUP sessions, and opportunities to try the latest gear, ensuring a truly inclusive and exciting experience.

Evenings during the festival will come alive with presentations, films, and talks by the UK’s top paddlers, who will share their inspiring stories and world-record achievements. These events aim to foster a deeper connection to the sport and the community that surrounds it.

Brendon Prince, a nine-time World Record Stand-Up Paddleboarding Champion and ambassador for the event, expressed his excitement: “Partnering with the SUP governing body PaddleUK to bring these championships to the English Riviera is a significant step toward elevating the sport. We’re not only focused on creating an exhilarating lineup of activities but also on promoting water safety and drowning prevention, which are at the heart of our mission.”

Prince continued, “Our goal is to position the English Riviera as a premier destination for international SUP. The next five years will be crucial in establishing a strong foundation with the support of our commercial partners, ensuring the region becomes synonymous with world-class paddleboarding.”