N1SCO National Championships in Emsworth, UK
April 29th saw the UK largest racing Stand UP Paddleboard fleet descend upon the beautiful harbor town of Emsworth. Residents of the town came to the esplanade in force to cheer on the sell out 100 strong fleet of Naish One Design boards racing for the Championship title.
Racing was split between the sheltered salt water pond for the Sprints and mid distance races whilst the 5km long distance race took the fleet across Chichester Harbor to the Thorney bank for a picturesque paddle along the coast. Racing took the action within meters of the crowds and taster sessions were on offer for those in the crowd who were inspired to give the sport a try.
The dominant force that is Ben Fisher lifted the Male National Championships title for another year but he was pushed all day by an ever competitive fleet. New comer to the fleet, Andrea Richardson lifted the ladies title and commented on her first N1SCO experience ‘I loved the event, the competitors are on fire so I will be digging deep in Swanage’.
Among the 100 strong fleet were 35 paddlers who had never competed before in any Stand Up Paddleboard race including a fleet of junior paddles, many under 10 years old.
Focus will now turn to the European N1SCO Championships that will take place in Swanage just down the coast on the 10th/11th June. More information and entry at www.n1sco.co.uk
Check out the FULL RACE RESULTS here.
Click HERE for the full video re-cap of the weekend!