Racers to Circle Key West During 12-Mile Paddle Classic
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The 12-mile distance around the island of Key West is to become a saltwater racecourse for competitors on paddleboards and self-propelled watercraft during the 2024 Key West Paddle Classic.
The annual race, presented by the Florida Keys adventure tour company Lazy Dog, is scheduled Saturday, Sept. 28. The challenge is open to watersports enthusiasts on stand-up paddleboards, prone boards and other watercraft including outrigger canoes, surf skis, kayaks and dory boats.
Participants can compete as individuals or in two-person, three-person and six-person teams as well as in relay teams of three. Events are headquartered at Higgs Beach at 1000 Atlantic Blvd. on the Atlantic Ocean.
The race is a World Paddle Association national points event.
Competitors can pick up their race packets at a kickoff party on the beach set for 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27.
Saturday’s action begins with a 6-7 a.m. racer check-in at Higgs Beach, followed by a racers meeting and Hawaiian blessing. The 12-mile race features staggered starts at 7:30 and 8 a.m.
The course takes competitors past island landmarks such as the Southernmost Point marker and Mallory Square, site of Key West’s nightly sunset celebration.
After circumnavigating the island, racers finish at Higgs Beach. Awards and a lunch for participants are to follow.
Entry fees for the renowned competition begin at $85 for individual participants and $170 for teams.
Event information and registration: paddleguru.com/races/KeyWestPaddleClassic2024
Racers gather at Higgs Beach for a Hawaiian blessing before embarking on the paddle challenge. Photos courtesy of Key West Paddle Classic.
An outrigger canoe team participates in a previous Key West Paddle Classic.
Racers paddle out from Higgs Beach then circumvent the island to return to Higgs Beach.