Registration Is Open For The 10th Annual Paddle The Park

Press Release – Registration for Friends of Virgin Islands National Park’s Paddle The Park in Maho Bay on St. John is open. This fun stand up paddle board race takes place on Sunday, November 12, 2023 and raises funds for Friends’ programs to protect and preserve the natural and cultural resources of the Virgin Islands National Park including turtle protection, mangrove research and restoration, and coral reef protection.

“Anyone that has been lucky enough to paddle in our ocean knows the magic of cruising on the surface looking down on the sea turtles and fish that are part of St. John’s marine resources,” says Tonia Lovejoy, Executive Director, Friends of Virgin Islands National Park.  “We sincerely thank the paddlers, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors, who make this event possible and contribute to the conservation of the park—and always look forward to hanging out with everyone at the beach BBQ following the paddle.”

The three race distances all start and end at Maho Bay beach offering paddlers options that suit their personal skill level.  The three distances are the Short Course (1 mile), the Open Course (2.7 miles) and the Elite Course (5.5 miles). This is a race for all ages with current registered paddlers ranging in age from 10 to 61. 

Very much a community event, Paddle The Park is possible thanks to 45 volunteers including high schoolers doing community service who help with registration, board handling, and more.  Stand up paddle boards are provided by Reef to Peak, Virgin Islands Expedition Company, and Cinnamon Bay Beach and Campground, with safety on the water provided by St. John Rescue supported by a number of kayakers, dinghies, and boats.  In all, essential sponsorship support comes from 48 local businesses and organizations.

To learn about more about Paddle The Park and all Friends events follow Friends of Virgin Islands National Park on facebook or instagram, or visit their website at www.friendsvinp.org.