Standup Paddleboarding Block Challenge to Be Held August 9
The annual Block Challenge will be held this Saturday, August 9. The Block Challenge is Paddlers for Humanity’s signature paddle—18 miles of open ocean paddling from the Montauk Lighthouse to Block Island, Rhode Island.
For those who want to participate—or who want to think about training for the 2015 event—Lars Svanberg, a Paddlers for Humanity board member, offer the below tips on preparing for a great long distance paddle.
1. Long Term: A month of one- to two-hour sessions two or three times per week will have anyone fit for the 18-mile paddle
2. Incorporate three three-hour-long paddles a few weeks before the event
3. Yoga once or twice a week between sessions will keep bodies flexible and strong
4. At first, avoid windy days
5. Practice paddling with a partner
6. Try going to Lazy Point on Gardiners Bay, located off the Napeague stretch
7. Wainscott to Montauk is an awesome down-winder on a west wind
8. Healthy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, energy bars and chia seeds are good to nosh on before and after the paddle
9. Wear comfortable paddle shorts, lightweight Lycra and a fleece shirt along with a brimmed sun hat.
10. Stay persistent and positive and you’ll have a great time!
Paddlers for Humanity is an East Hampton-based nonprofit that raises money and awareness for local and global organizations dedicated to bettering children’s lives. For more information, visit p4h.org.