THE RACE:

Mercer Island, Washington is one of the most populated fresh water islands in North America. Nestled on Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and accessed by Interstate 90 from east and west, It is home to some of the most amazing waterfront homes in the U.S. The distance to circumnavigate the island is approximately 13 miles. This year’s race is actually starting and finishing on the Seattle side of the lake in spectacular Seward Park. The south beach has amazing views of Mount Rainier, and the 300 acres of forest land is home to eagles’ nests, old growth forest, bike and walking paths, and hiking trails.

2009′s First Annual ‘Round the Rock featured almost 150 competitors. This year’s race is guaranteed to have a much larger field as the sport is exploding in popularity. In addition to the 13 mile race there is an afternoon race along the shore of Seward Park for 2-1/2 miles. There will be open divisions featuring age groups and board lengths for men and women for both races. There will also be a FREE kids race for ages 7 to 14. All children must wear a lifejacket.

The average temperature in Seattle for early-September is in the mid-70′s and the average water temperature near the surface of Lake Washington is also in the mid-70′s!

This years 13 mile race will feature an Elite Division for top paddlers who will be competing for prize money.

All proceeds will benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital and Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit environmental organization which works for clean water and beaches.

SUP EXPO: Manufacturer’s Reps, local retailers, and industry professionals will be on hand displaying the latest gear and answering questions. Demos will be provided as well for those who are interested in trying the sport for first time or testing a new board design.

ENTRY FEE:

Early Bird Registration (before 11:59 PM on July 31, 2010):

Open Division – 13 mile Race $50
Open Division – 2-1/2 mile Race $35
Open Combo – both races $75 (must complete 13 mile race in under 4 hours – NO REFUNDS)

Elite Division – 13 mile Race $150

Standard Registration (12:00 AM August 1, 2010 through September 10, 2010):

Open Division – 13 mile Race $60
Open Division – 2-1/2 mile Race $40
Open Combo – both races $85 (must complete 13 mile race in under 4 hours – NO REFUNDS)

Elite Division – 13 mile Race $150

Kids Race (Age 7 to 14) – FREE

Check out RoundTheRock.com for more information!

And a special congratulations to two guys I’ve had the opportunity to meet through this site, Olivier and Kelvin and looking forward to seeing the photos of the event!

Click here for the results, and for more information on the the race, click here!

“Round the Rock” is shaping up to becoming the premier Stand Up Paddle event in the Pacific Northwest.

The first course for the “Round the Rock” entails circumnavigating Mercer Island on Lake Washington. While 13 miles (around 21 km) may seem like a great distance, a novice paddler can cover the course at a leisurely 4-5 hours. More experienced paddlers may break the 3 hour mark.,

They’ll also have a 2.5 mile (just over 4km) short course race which will begin after most competitors have finished the full course… Hardcore paddlers may decide to enter both! Of course a variety of factors will affect times including size of board, weight of the rider, and wind conditions.The last factor no one can control, but barring a hurricane or thunderstorm, this event will go on!

All proceeds will benefit Surfrider Foundation.

Click here for the event website!