Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race

General Discussion
1

So yesterday the waves were closed out, but it has been so hot and theocean conditions looked so nice I decided to paddle.  I set off from Torrance Beach aiming for the  point which would be just outside Haggerty’s.  About two thirds of the way there (after about 30 minutes of paddling) I get thirsty (oh yeah, you get thirsty doing physical activity in 85 degree weather!) and start choking and coughing and in the end I had to drink some sea water.  I was on a longboard.  Never thought to bring a water bottle.  It made me think how nice it would be to have one of those 18’ paddleboards…

I’ve done the LA Marathon three years in a row and am already signed up for the next one, so I guess I like that kind of endurance test/suffering.

So now I’m thinking about the Catalina Classic.  I want to know from people who have done it how hard it is and how it compares to a marathon, how you train, is it better to go with a long unlimited board (easier paddle?) or a stock 12’er.

 

Also I have on and off issues with rotator cuff in my right shoulder.  Would that automatically make the race a no go?  Or Is there a way to train that could even help/strengthen my rotator cuff?

 

I don’t know, the Classic is steeped in waterman tradition and that appeals to me.  And I get hooked on the kind of personal challenge represented by events like the marathon.

 

Maybe I’m Barking up the wrong tree?

2

so cool!

That’s one of my goals too.

I’m interested to hear what folks say…

remember A’Chateaux (iirc) built a paddle board… there was another guy that built one with a mexican blanket color job that came out pretty sweet.

3

I’m way past the stage of even considering it !..but if you did it llilibel , or a Molokai Crossing it would be an achievement to remember forever. From what I understand , which is not so much , there’s a lot more to it than just the distance…currents-wind- swell- peaks- troughs-rythm-equipment… most boards in those races are at least 16ft - most are 18 footers…with 12’ , you’d be way under-gunned.