Paddle for a Cause: The Inaugural Around the World Paddle Classic

March 18, 2024

Set to Make Waves for SEAL Family Foundation in Support of Naval Special Warfare Families

CORONADO, CA (March 18, 2024)/ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – On April 13, 2024, paddlers of all levels are invited to participate in the inaugural ‘Around the World’ Paddle Classic, a first of its kind water sports festival that includes current and former Navy SEALs. The event, based on a legendary workout SEAL candidates endure during ‘Hell Week’, gives participants the opportunity to create a team and paddle in a rubber raft 13 miles around Coronado Island, or opt for a shorter ‘Around the Bay’ 3 mile course in kayaks or stand-up paddle boards. The event benefits the SEAL Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports the families of Naval Special Warfare.

Whether you are part of the premier team category paddling an inflatable boat thirteen miles, or an recreational kayaker or a stand-up paddleboard enthusiast on the shorter course, this event happens against the stunning backdrop of Coronado, just across the Bay from downtown San Diego. “This is a rare opportunity to experience an event that is more than memorable for all Navy SEALs,” said Jamie Monroe, Race Director, and former SEAL. “Every SEAL has a story about their ‘Around the World,’ the way it tests you individually, but also draws you closer to your team. It’s an experience that lasts a lifetime.”

Participants can choose between two race options: the challenging 13.1-mile event or the less demanding 3-mile event. The Around the World 13.1 Miler offers a unique 7-person team experience and is limited to 10 teams. Paddling in an IBS (military abbreviation for Inflatable Boat Small), teams will navigate the stunning route starting at Tidelands Park, through the San Diego Harbor, and conclude with a surf landing and boat portage across the Silver Strand. The ‘Around the Bay’ event will be for individual paddlers seeking a 3-mile journey around Glorietta Bay, with a variety of boat divisions* including single and double kayaks, surf-skis, OCs, SUPs, and more.

Around the World wholly benefits the SEAL Family Foundation, founded in 2008, a nonprofit organization committed to aiding Naval Special Warfare families, locally, nationally, and globally. With more than 90 percent of all funding directly supporting essential services, the Foundation ensures that the families of these brave individuals receive the support they deserve.

“What the SEAL Family Foundation does is really provide peace of mind for the deployed Naval Special Forces operator.” Said Duncan Smith, Executive Director of the SEAL Family foundation and retired Navy SEAL. “By participating in the Around the World Paddle Classic, funds from the event will provide support for the families of Active-Duty SEALs, special boat teams, and support staff who make the Naval Special Warfare mission possible.”

Finally, all participants will be treated to exclusive swag, a complimentary lunch, and access to the post-race expo. Teams competing in the 13.1-mile event will receive an IBS Boat rental, a customized ATW (Around the World) hat, and a long-sleeve t-shirt. Individual paddlers competing in the 3-mile event will receive a stylish short-sleeve t-shirt. The race celebrates not only personal achievements but also recognizes outstanding performance. Awards are presented based on boat divisions, ensuring everyone has a chance to shine.

AROUND THE WORLD PADDLE CLASSIC EVENT SCHEDULE

*Open to the following boat divisions*: Surfski, OC1, SUP 14′, K1, Kayak -sit on top, C1, V1, SUP 12’6 and under, Prone-Stock, Prone 14′, Prone Unlimited

For additional event information and to sign up, go to ATWPaddle.org or visit sealfamilyfoundation.org and follow @sealfamilyfoundation_ and @aroundtheworldpaddle on social media.

About SEAL Family Foundation

SEAL Family Foundation is headquartered in Coronado, CA, and is dedicated to raising awareness and funds in direct support of the Naval Special Warfare and Gold Star communities on a local, national, and global scale. We work in collaboration with Warrior and Family Support Services to provide vital programs and emergency response needed while constantly addressing new and rapidly emerging challenges that U.S. Navy Special Operators and their families face. This allows warriors to focus on their training and deployment with a greater sense of ease knowing that their loved ones have strong support back at home. A resilient and deployment-ready family creates a focused and retained military force.

About Easy Day Sports

Easy Day Sports is a dynamic event production agency whose emphasis is creating memorable life experiences through premier, professionally managed endurance sports events. The company’s name is deeply inspired by the Navy SEAL motto “The only easy day was yesterday.” This is embodied through superior event production and a tireless commitment to excellence. Easy Day Sports is proud to partner with SEAL Family Foundation as the event production company. Contact information for Easy Day Sports can be found at easydaysports.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:  

Duncan Smith, CAPT, USN (Ret.)
Executive Director
SEAL Family Foundation
619-339-5798
Duncan.Smith@SEALfamilyfoundation.org
SEALfamilyfoundation.org