Narragansett Beach to Host 3rd Annual Waterman Eco-Challenge

Narragansett Parks & Recreation alongside Narragansett Surf Rescue, have partnered with Raw Elements USA and South County Orthopedics to host the Waterman Eco-Challenge 2013 at Narragansett Town Beach on July 13. 

Contestants can compete in the 3-mile open ocean paddle race on a traditional paddle board or on a newer stand up paddle board, both of which can be rented from Narrow River Kayaks if necessary. For participants who are new to the sport, Warm Winds Surf Shop (26 Kingstown Rd., Narragansett) is offering a free Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Clinic during the event.

Apart from the paddle race, the day’s festivities will also provide a platform to raise awareness about ocean and sun safety. 

At this year's Eco-Challenge, guests can peruse many interactive and educational tents down on the beach. South County Orthopedics will be on hand for free Physical Therapy analysis; Food for Thought will be giving out health-conscious food and drink samples and Dr. Ferry will host a tent for the kids complete with free face painting and sand art activities. In addition, a dermatologist from the World Skin Project will be on hand to promote skin cancer awareness with a focus on education for massage therapists. (As well as free massages - whoo!)

Come Out And Paddle! Saturday's race route begins at Narragansett Town beach and extends to the Coast Guard House and throughout the length of the Sea Wall. For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, there will be many vantage points for spectators to watch the exciting action, making the event great for the entire family!

Below is a schedule of the day's events: 

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - FREE Stand Up Paddle Clinic 

12 p.m. - 3-Mile Open Ocean Paddle

2 p.m. -  Awards Ceremony 

All Day -  Interactive Ocean Safety Tent - Narragansett Surf Rescue

All Day  - Interactive Sun Safety Tent - Raw Elements USA

All Day - Kids Tent Face Painting & Sand Art

All Day - World Skin Project - Dermatologist Screening

The paddle race is co-ed and open to both SUP and Prone Paddlers. There is a $40 registration fee to participate. Click here to register to compete. Rental boards are available for the event by contacting narrowriverkayaks@verizon.net.

For more information on the Waterman Eco-Challenge 2013, visit the official website at WatermanEcoChallenge.com or click here to visit the event's Facebook page.