On May 18th, the picturesque Irish countryside played host to a remarkable event. The Barrow Blitz, Ireland's longest stand-up paddleboarding challenge. This year's Ultra SUP Challenge brought together a dedicated team of family, friends, and seasoned SUP enthusiasts, who combined years of kayaking and SUP experience to organize an unforgettable point-to-point paddle event.
The Barrow Blitz, covering a 51km stretch of the Barrow Navigation from Maganey, Co. Kildare to Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny, proved to be a true test of endurance and skill. Participants gathered for an early morning kit check in Graiguenamanagh at 7:30 am, setting the stage for a day filled with excitement and physical exertion.
The challenge was intensified by the navigation of 15 lock portages and crossings between river and canal sections, each one draining the participants' energy. However, perfect paddling conditions with a high overcast sky and warm temperatures made the journey through southern Ireland's breath-taking scenery a memorable one.
Among the many outstanding performances, Patrick McCormack's record breaking effort stood out. Patrick demonstrated incredible stamina and skill, particularly during the arduous portages and transitions between river and canal sections, ultimately securing first place with an impressive time of 5 hours, 37 minutes, and 2 seconds.
Congratulations to all who took part and completed this epic challenge. Among the highlights was a fierce head-to-head race between myself and Carla Stripe. Carla, paddling her Starboard Allstar Carbon 14ft SUP, pushed hard throughout the course. I was fortunate to use a Starboard Airline 14ft 24in inflatable SUP, kindly lent to me by Starboard SUP, which performed exceptionally well. In the final 10km, I managed to secure a 10-minute lead to cross the long-awaited finish line setting a new record time for women paddlers.
The event was not without its toll on the participants. Blisters and rubs from paddling left many hands taped with plasters, and knees were marked from scrambling up banks. Yet, the smiles of delight on everyone's faces as they crossed the finish line were testament to the incredible spirit and camaraderie shared by all.
A special shout-out to Pure Adventure Ireland for organizing the race and to @basaltsix for supporting the event with some fantastic prizes!
Barrow Blitz SUP Challenge 2024 Results
Men’s Results (51km):
- Patrick McCormack (Ireland) - 5hr 37min 02sec
- Dermot Woodhouse (Irish/USA) - 6hr 24min 35sec
- Patrick Murtagh (Ireland) - 6hr 42min 39sec
Women’s Results (51km):
- Emily King (Wales) - 6hr 32min 25sec
- Carla Mitne (Ireland) - 6hr 42min 39sec
- Rachel Elliott (UK) - 7hr 47min 40sec
We look forward to next year's event with a new route that promises to be even more exciting. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this year’s Barrow Blitz a resounding success. See you on the water in 2025!
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