Santa Barbara DW Goes Off in Challenging Conditions

Last weekend set off the annual Santa Barbara Downwinder Race, stop #2 on the California Downwind Race Series presented by Honolua.

Heading into the event the conditions looked solid with windy conditions predicted in the 25knot range.

The typical wind pattern in SB is the wind blows early from the south and as the day goes on it shifts throughout the day and turns north in the afternoon. Unfortunately the wind never shifted and the racers were faced with an 11 mile "upwind" grind. Many of the field bowed out at about the half way mark and some racers decided not to race altogether.

Racers were greeted with some killer food and drinks... Everyone still have a great time and enjoyed the afternoon sunset with friends.

Thank you for those who came out and all the hardcore paddlers that completed the race! You guys are gnarly!

Congrats to Brian Stockdale (ult SUP), Byron Kurt (14'), Drew Kurt (open), Dave Boehne (14'), and Allison Riddle (wms 14) on victories!

Full results coming soon on the SBDW race website

for a bunch more photos from the event visit our friends over at Standup Paddle Sports click HERE thanks Wardog!

See you all at the 3rd and final stop of the CDWRS this July 28th in Coronado, San Diego for the Chainsaw Massacre loop!