The Lifeguard Lap Race Recap

The first Lifeguard Lap was an incredible way to start off the season. Already known as THE destination race for SoCal paddlers. From the adjacent world-class campground to the 6 AM coffee on the beach, the vibes were impeccable. We scored conditions with warm weather, and an always protected cove - though we could see the whitecaps blasting down the coast outside the breakwater - Hoping to add some downwind laps next year! The race course was a treat with otters and seals popping up throughout the paddle, and we saw our usual suspects at the top of the field.

To no one's surprise Jack Bark was first across the line, but was followed closely by Zach Jirkovsky. Rounding out the top 5 mens Unlimited were Ian kistner, Chris Starkweather, and Jake Glick.

Davy Thomas led out the stock race and never looked back. In 2nd was the Santa Barbara native and UC Santa Cruz student Oliver Levine, making some jumps up from last year's season. In 3rd was style master Parker Russell, followed by the always-stoked Foster Campbell.

The womens' race started fast, as per usual. The reigning Classic champ Emily Bark, followed by Sydney Brouwer, held the lead group for the first few miles. Emily came across the line first, Sydney second, and Gisselle Lewis was close behind.

The hospitality of the Central Coast Paddlers really made this race a standout, and we're crossing our fingers that it stays in the yearly rotation. Missed this one? Pretty soon is another favorite- The Malibu Downwinder, on April 26th. See you at Mugu!