The Lake Tahoe Paddleboard Association (LTPA) was founded to “promote, provide, and support environmentally friendly human-power paddlesport activities” in the Basin. This not-for-profit organization has been around since 2009, and its premiere series, the Tahoe Cup, benefits non-motorized aquatic programs in Truckee-Tahoe. This year’s series of events take place in May, July, and September.
If it’s Memorial Day Weekend, it’s time for the first of three major occasions: the Donner Lake Race! The first event takes place on Saturday, May 23, 2015. It’s open to all paddling craft; participants of all ability levels are welcome to race, from recreational to SUP Elites. Here are a few more details:
- While it’s recommended you register online, race-day registration begins at 8 a.m. Registration cost depends on the ticket type, but will be $50 or $130, plus applicable fees.
- The 5-mile race around the shoreline starts at 9 a.m. at West End Beach.
- Spectators are welcome at the start/finish line, and there will be lots to do – including free demos – in a festive and fun atmosphere.
The second in the Cup series is the Jam From The Dam, which takes place on Saturday, July 11th! This event happens along Lake Tahoe’s North Shore, following a 6-mile course from Tahoe City to Carnelian Bay. What else do you need to know?
- As with the Donner event, advance registration, which can be completed online, is recommended. Tickets go for $50, plus a small service fee.
- The race starts at 9 a.m. on Commons Beach and is open to all ability levels. You’ll race with, or as a spectator witness, world-renowned athletes who mix it up with other paddlers. The race ends at Waterman’s Landing.
In addition to the main event, the 5th Annual Rob Rojas Keike Challenge, for kids 8-11, or 7 and under, will be held right after. It’s a prone paddleboard event, free to participate in. Everyone must provide their own gear.
The third and final event in the Cup series – the Tahoe Fall Classic – takes place on Sunday, September 13, 2015. This ‘big splash’ finale covers 22 miles! In fact, it’s the longest inland distance in the world for a paddleboard race. There are actually three events this day: a 3-mile short course, most suitable for beginners, a ‘Grom’ race for younger paddlers (under 11 years old), and the 22-mile main event. You can register online in advance for any of the three events here. Ticket prices run from free (‘Grom’ race only), to $50 for the open class 3-mile race, to $70 for the main event. Here’s more:
- It’s expected the Classic will see over 150 men and women paddlers from around the world.
- The cross-lake event starts at El Dorado Beach, South Lake Tahoe. Racers paddle across the lake to finish at Kings Beach State Beach in North Lake Tahoe.
- Prizes of $100, $200, and $300 cash will be awarded to the third, second, and first prone paddle-boarders.
The other races take place after the main event. Everyone must supply their own gear, and any paddlers under 18 will need to have a release signed by a parent or legal guardian. Lunch follows for the long and short program participants, and awards will then be presented.
This list was accurate at the time of publication; please check directly with the venue(s) to ensure dates, times, and locations remain the same.
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