A stand up paddleboarding competition in Chattanooga. (Photo courtesy ORCVB)
People in the recreation industry call it a fast-growing sport with a Hawaiian heritage.
It’s stand up paddleboarding, or SUP, and it’s coming to Oak Ridge in September in a new event called the Secret City SUP Classic. It will feature two races starting at 2 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Oak Ridge Marina on Melton Lake Park.
“SUP is a new sport that’s taking the waterways by storm, and Oak Ridge provides the perfect venue for these races,†said Katy Brown, executive director of the Oak Ridge Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We hope paddleboarders of all ages will come out to the waterfront as we introduce the region to a different side of the Secret City.â€
The Secret City SUP Classic is part of the Tennessee SUP Championship Series and consists of a two-mile fun race and a seven-mile elite race. The event is scheduled to last until 4 p.m. Sept. 8, and it will feature music performances by members of local band Public Apology, a press release said.
SUP supporters say the sport, which allows surfers to paddle longer distances, among other things, can be enjoyed with a minimum of equipment, and no waves are required.
The ORCVB called it a “human-powered sports phenomenon.” Oak Ridge officials have worked for several years to start hosting more human-powered sports activities in the Secret City, including at the Oak Ridge Marina.
For more information about the Secret City SUP Classic and to register, visit here or contact the Oak Ridge Convention and Visitors Bureau at (865) 482-7821. A packet pick-up will be held at Lincoln’s Sports Grille the evening of Saturday, Sept. 7, and at Melton Hill Lake Pavilion on Sunday, Sept. 8 starting at 10 a.m.
Visit the ORCVB website for more information.
Jennifer Martin says
I cant wait to go to this!!!
johnhuotari says
Definitely sounds like fun.
Eileen Slater says
Stand-up paddle boards are available for rent right now at the Marina! Called Outdoor Adventures (I think) they also rent bikes, kayaks and paddle boats just past the restaurant. They have nice equipment!
Eileen Slater says
Correction: they’re called Adventures Outdoors and they have a Facebook page.
Steve Dittner says
Just don’t try to rent one on Sunday, they’re not open. But, on Wednesday evening they are there when I can’t shake free and get there with my 6 day a week schedule. Bad business being a recreational service that caters to weekend warriors and cutting off half of your business potential.
johnhuotari says
Thank you for letting us know.
Sam Jones says
Race organizers have told me that there will be several boards on site available to rent for the race. I’m hearing that even the most novice racers have a good chance at placing in the event. If you’d like to learn more about renting a board for the event, call the Oak Ridge CVB at the number listed above.
johnhuotari says
Thank you for the additional info. How do we know if we’re novices? 🙂