Cape Ann SUPahBowl, Gloucester’s biggest paddle board racing event, brought more than 60 contestants to Pavilion Beach at Beauport Hotel early this morning. It was a rainy start but gave way to a beautiful day on Gloucester Harbor.

Congratulations on a such an amazing launch Cape Ann SUP! And to all who pulled this together including Beauport Hotel, High 5EM event management company, Barefoot Wine (the largest wine spritzer company in the country I was told- who knew?),  One Ocean One Love retail shop, and a big family of volunteers and staff.

The race had staggered starts for 4 various classes: elite, amateur, open and kids. The elites kicked it off and had the longest distance course.  The video shows the start of the first two groups heading off to turn right… at the Greasy Pole! Coast guard and police boats were on hand and a paddle board pit stop at each buoy should any help be necessary. Photos from today’s event below.

They’re off!

video of the first 3 minutes – elite and amateur racers start from dry land

They’re off – open race starts in the water

They’re off – kid’s race starts in the water

map for the 2.5 mile open course

Returning Racers

Racers return to Pavilion Beach after grueling courses. Cape Ann SUP (red t-shirts) staff wait to carry and beach each and every board as contestants dismount and sprint –carrying their paddles — through to the official finish line and timer.

Finished racers await other contestants and times. Many knew each other and competed in all 4 races of summer 2017.

Ashley and Caren from HIGH 5EM event management handled the times (I’ll post to results)

BEFORE THE RACE

Vinnie, Dominic’s dad (white shirt),  worked throughout the event (setting up finish line here with High 5em!) and worked through the celebration. “It’s a family effort and affair,” he said speaking to how the race is put on and who it caters to. There was a tremendously positive vibe!

Excitement in the air at registration prep

lobster course buoys

Dominic explains the race course to more than 60 participants first ever Cape Ann SUPahBowl 2017

Barefoot wine

Collin Jackson, Mara Hale, Nicole Brosch, Britta Akerley

rainy start and some serious gear

Anneliese moving course buoys into place

DURING THE RACE

Danielle Maccini, Director of Events for Beauport Hotel, goes over details with Dominic. Small or large they make any event special. DanielleM@BeauportHotel.com
www.BeauportHotel.com

The view from the Beauport Hotel deck is a sweeping stunner! Before the awards ceremony and reception were held, Barefoot Wine, Cape Ann SUP and One Ocean One Love shop were readying the event space with Beauport Hotel.

AWARDS CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

Gentle and fun crowd of racers. There was serious prize money and cute swag. All participants received the sweet inaugural t-shirt.

Anneliese Brosch and Dominic attend to every detail

Mens elite

Womens elite

Kids win

Johnny

mens Grand winner all 4 events

Nice to see so many families and future racers!