The 3rd Annual Vermont Stand Up Paddleboard Festival will be held at the Waterbury Reservoir on June 29th, from 10am until 4pm. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Friends of Waterbury Reservoir (FWR), an organization committed to protecting, improving and enhancing the ecological, recreational, and community values of the Waterbury Reservoir.
The Waterbury Reservoir is recognized as a unique resource and an important conservation and economic asset for the people of the state of Vermont. The $5 entry fee for the event will go directly to the FWR to help in their conservation efforts so generations to come can continue to paddle and camp on this beautiful lake.
By now most people have heard of or have seen someone paddling a stand up paddleboard. SUP for short, is becoming the fastest growing sport in Vermont. The reason this sport has grown so quickly in popularity is because it is something anyone can do and is relatively inexpensive. Vermont, and the entire east coast, is full with waterways that are great for beginner, intermediate and advanced paddlers. “This sport has grown so much that our festival has doubled in size each year since we began. We are expecting many newcomers and experienced paddlers to join us this year to test boards, paddles and gain some knowledge about the sport,” says Steve Brownlee, owner of Umiak Outfitters.
“It’s the perfect way for someone to get outside and get a good workout without feeling like you are in a gym, while enjoying the beautiful scenery that Vermont has to offer.” According to Russ Scully, owner of WND&WVS, “It is really easy to get a board on a vehicle and go to the water for 30 minutes or the entire day.”
Area paddle shops and local food products will be on hand to help spread their love for the outdoors, paddling and healthy living. There will be demos available from over 10 companies like Bic, Surftech, Laird, Boardworks, Michael Dolsey, Riviera, Nash, and Starboard will be in attendance. There will also be instruction, and Bic One Design races multiple times throughout the day.
The park is expected to fill quickly. Shuttle service will be available from designated off-site parking. There is a $3 day use fee for entry to the park, and the $5 Vermont Paddleboard Festival fee will be donated to Friends of Waterbury Reservoir
For more information about the event, visit www.vtpaddlefest.com. To learn more about the Friends of Waterbury Reservoir, visit www.friendsofwaterburyreservoir.org.
