LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk | Events Adirondack SUP Festival By: Steve Doxzon I f you asked me five years ago what SUP was, I wouldn't have been able to give you an answer, and I doubt many people in the paddle sports world would have been able to tell you much about it. That began to change in the early 2000's when modern Stand Up Paddling (on a surf board) came to California from Hawaii via Rick Thomas. Now, SUP is the fastest growing segment of the paddle sports industry. Today most surf board manufacturers, major paddling companies, and small local shops are making stand up paddleboards. Here in the Adirondacks, things really got started in 2012 when the First Annual Adirondack SUP Festival, hosted by Lakes & Trails Outfitters, was held on Lake Colby in Saranac Lake. The main event was a World Paddling Association (WPA) sanctioned race drawing eighteen racers from as far away as North Carolina. In addition to the race, there were opportunities for on-water demos of SUP boards, free instructional clinics taught by expert paddlers, and fun, easy going races for the entire family. This year the SUP festival returns to Lake Colby on June 21st, 22nd, and 23rd and is expected to be bigger and better than ever. The event will start on Friday and include a race clinic, an after school clinic/paddle for kids, a SUP fitness class, and board demos. Saturday will be a full day of races and clinics along with the opportunity to try different boards and get some expert instruction. As a special treat, you can even try SUP Yoga! Then on Sunday there will be a SUP tour on one of the local waterways, depending on the conditions. Stand Up Paddling is a lot easier than most people think. Most entry level boards are stable and easy to paddle. A big draw for those new to the sport is the great exercise benefits. It really does work your core! SUP engages almost every muscle in your body and is excellent for developing balance. In addition, SUP allows a very different visual perspective of the water and your surroundings. You can see some very interesting things standing that you don't always see 24 LOCALadk Magazine Spring 2013 sitting in a canoe or kayak. More detailed information on the event can be found by calling 800-491-0414, visiting the web site www.adirondacksupfestival.com, or stopping by Adirondack Lakes & Trails Outfitters, at 541 Lake Flower Avenue in Saranac Lake. This year's SUP festival will offer a great opportunity for those new to the sport to try out some gear, learn how to use it, and take advantage of special event pricing and sales. All of the Village of Saranac Lake Capital of the Adirondacks representatives from the major board and accessory companies will be on hand to answer all of your questions. Join us at the 2013 Adirondack SUP Festival. There is no better way to find out what Stand Up Paddling is all about and try it for yourself. It's an event for the whole family. u

• Cover