The Head of the Dart SUP Challenge is a welcoming event aimed at a wide range of paddlers from intermediate ability through to experienced racers. Roughly half the fleet take part in the “leisure” category and depending on the weather conditions, the course can be challenging with chop and wind. In our terms and conditions, we do ask that those entering have adequate paddling ability to and experience complete the course within three hours.
We would like to remind all potential participants that the ability to paddle unaided for 14km in varied (possibly choppy) conditions is a prerequisite in order to run the event safely.
Safety of paddlers is always one of our big concerns and so many new people new to paddling, it is important that everyone going out onto the water ensures they do so safely. Please see the below advice which we would ask everyone to follow:
- If you are new to paddling, we would encourage that you have lesson with a qualified instructor (if not already done so). You can also find useful advise online by Sam Ross (Watersports Coach) in partnership with the RNLI and Lagoon Watersports – click here or contact Haywood Sportswho will be able to provide tips on taking part in the event.
If you are new to paddling, please take some time to watch these videos.
Non-racing paddlers in the leisure category who seek to complete the course as a personal challenge are encouraged to participate provided they have the necessary fitness and paddling skills. It must be noted that the event has a time limit and paddlers not making it past certain points on the course in appropriate time will be collected by a rescue boat.
If you do have any queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch as we are happy to help.
Head of the Dart SUP Challenge 