CAULKER, Mon. Mar. 28, 2016–The Third Annual Caye Caulker Kayak Island Challenge got under way at 11:00 a.m. on Holy Saturday, March 26.  The Kayak Island Challenge is an open kayak race around the island.

Seven brave kayakers, which included one woman, participated in three categories – Men’s Single, Women’s Single, and Rudder.

Chris Guydis, paddling for Paddle Stop, the only entrant in the Rudder Category, used a surfski sit-on-top racing kayak, and completed the race distance of about twelve miles in about two hours.  He was the overall winner, and opened a gap of about 21 minutes on the second place overall winner. Although no official time was taken, this was the best estimate, looking at our watches.  The surfski will most likely be the racing kayak of choice in the near future here in Belize.  Chris picked up a $300 cash prize with a trophy, and won all station prizes along the way.

The only other single entrant was in the Women’s Single Category. Allie Johnstone won that category, picking up $500 cash prize and a trophy.  She was fifth overall.  Great job, Ms. Johnstone!

The most contested category was the Men’s Single. There were five participants. First place in this category and second overall was Steven Arnold; he won $800 and a trophy.  Second place and third overall was Jerry Rhaburn; he received $400 and a trophy. Third place and fourth overall was Kenrick Daniels; he received $200 and a trophy.  The other two participants that did not finish the challenge were Brandon Lind and Sean Arnold; great effort, guys!

The race started and ended at Palapas Gardens.

The race was organized by Mr. Robert Blease and the Caye Caulker Tour Guide Association. For more information about the event, please feel free to contact him at 666-0788.  This report was prepared by Paddle Stop.