A large group of the world’s best stand-up paddle (SUP) racers will dash their way across a 24-kilometre stretch of water from Dawesville to Secret Harbour for the annual King of the Cut this weekend.
The race – Australia’s most prestigious and the world’s fastest downwind sprint – will attract competitors from Japan, Singapore, New Caledonia, Switzerland, Ireland and across Australia as they battle it out for the $4500 top prize.
The Peel coastline offers up the perfect conditions for the race, with the powerful and consistent West Coast sea breeze blowing uninterrupted runners that push competitors along at speeds of up to 20 kilometres per hour like an endless conveyor belt.
The speed of the race, along with the equal prize money for both men and women’s categories, lures in a huge amount of keen paddlers with hundreds set to test themselves.
Among them will be world champion Michael Booth, who is hoping to break his duck in the race and post his first win.
“It’s a prestigious race – there’s always a lot of big names on the card so it’s definitely a title you want to put on your resume,” he said.
“I’ve raced in it a few times now so to come away with a win would be a great result.”
The King of the Cut looks set take place on Saturday, December 1, but could be moved to the Sunday depending on conditions.
For further information, visit kingofthecut.com or supwa.com.au
