The 2025 Black Project x GBSUP National Paddle Racing Series has burst onto the scene with two exhilarating events, setting a high bar for the remaining seven national-level competitions.
From the challenging waters of Oxford to the scenic expanse of Llandegfedd, paddlers of all ages and skill levels have showcased incredible determination and talent.
Round 1: Oxford SUPer 8 – A Test of Grit
The series ignited at the Oxford SUPer 8, hosted by Oxford SUP Club at Farmoor Reservoir. Conditions were certainly challenging, with strong winds making the distance race a true test of endurance.
While the competitive fleet bravely battled the elements on a shortened, figure-of-8 course, it was the juniors who truly shone. Paddlers as young as 12 tackled a modified course, while older juniors completed multiple laps of the full course in worsening conditions – a testament to their resilience and budding skill.
Our Challenge Tour novice paddlers, enjoying the calmer early morning conditions, set the stage for a day of impressive performances.
The competitive fleets saw some standout results despite the demanding conditions. Will Keetley claimed victory in the 14′ Men’s Hardboard category, while Michelle Kimbler secured the top spot in the female 14′ Hardboard.
In the iSUP fleets, Mike Ridsdill Smith set a blistering pace to win the 14′ Men’s iSUP, and Katarzyna Stunt took first in the female 14′ iSUP. The Starboard Airline CUP fleet also saw its first champions crowned, with Julie Poole taking the ladies’ honours and Neil Forrest leading the men.
Round 2: Black Project Llandegfedd Pursuit – Endurance and Camaraderie
The series then moved to the stunning Black Project Llandegfedd Pursuit, a two-day event blessed with sunny and calm conditions that tested paddlers’ endurance over a longer distance.
This event marked a significant milestone with our first-ever joint initiative with AquaPaddle, underscoring our commitment to developing grassroots pathways in paddle sports.
Juniors remained a key focus, and our competitive fleets took on a formidable 15km course.
Saturday kicked off with a 5km AquaPaddle, followed by a fantastic skills clinic led by Black Project’s pro paddlers, Bastian and Manu, who shared their expertise in tech racing.
The afternoon saw an exciting tech race, building anticipation for the main event on Sunday.
Under warm temperatures and minimal wind, Sunday’s national series race was a hot affair. The top four male paddlers in the 14′ Hardboard fleet engaged in a nail-biting race, with Manu ultimately securing the win. Gemma Palmer-Dighton triumphed in the ladies’ 14′ Hardboard fleet.
In the iSUP categories, Mike Ridsdill Smith continued his impressive form from Oxford to take the men’s victory, and Kerry Ridgway brought home the ladies’ honours. The Starboard Airline Cup saw Rob Crowshaw lead the men and Michaela Afford the ladies.
Our Challenge Tour paddlers continued to embody the spirit of personal achievement, setting their best times, pushing their fitness boundaries, and enjoying the camaraderie of the course. These events truly highlight how the GBSUP series provides a platform for newcomers to embrace the sport and for experienced racers to push their limits.
The first two events of the 2025 Black Project x GBSUP National Paddle Racing Series have undoubtedly set a strong tone for the year. The focus on developing grassroots paddling, a cornerstone of our partnership with Paddle UK, has been evident in the opportunities provided for both novice and experienced racers.
We look forward to the continued excitement and growth throughout the remainder of the series!
Media Credits: P3T Photography – GBSUP Official Media Partner
https://www.p3tphotography.com/
Words by Scott Warren, GBSUP Chair