Hanohano SUP Race 2012, Quick Notes on Course

Of all stand up paddle board races, the Hanohano is arguably one of the most important races in the calendar, due to the large turnout, easy entry level for race novices, and a highly scenic venue on mission bay.

Jim Terrell trying a different stand up paddle board at the Hanohano 2011 in Mission Bay, San Diego.

SAN DIEGO, California – Coming up this Saturday the SoCal Ocean Racing series will be holding its third event of the winter series, the Hanohano race down at Bonita Cove in San Diego, California. The race is open to multiple watercrafts, including not only stand up paddle boards but also outriggers, surf skis, traditional paddleboards, etc. Stand up paddle and traditional paddleboard racers will run the short course (4.9 miles) while the other crafts the long course (miles). Of all stand up paddle board races, the Hanohano is arguably one of the most important races in the calendar, due to the large turnout, easy entry level for race novices, and a highly scenic venue on mission bay. (Find a Sup Race on Events page of Supconnect.)

Some Notes on Short Course

Here are some notes on the course. First, starts are always crucially important but all the more so at the Hanohano short course. Standup paddle boarders sprint to a bottleneck left turn, hugging the jetty and facing lots of turbulence. Typically, paddlers come within inches of the rocks and the ebb and flow of the ocean, plus the tight pack of the start, make it really difficult to find a clear, calm opening, unless (of course) you are leading the start. So, sprint hard and try to hold a lead to find some clear water. Second, watch the currents. There will be a few turns and twists during the course, especially near jetties. And sometimes the shortest path is not the fastest. The course is close to the mouth of the bay and currents can be tricky, particularly in shallower waters. Keep an eye on the people around you and note whether your path is helping you gain, lose, or hold your lead around the bends. Drafting might be the safest strategy to hold your grounds in shallower water. Other than that, go out, have fun, and share the sup stoke! (Follow Supconnect on Facebook for lastest updates.)

Top Times from Last Year.

Watch a 10-6 Raven on the course

See Complete Results from Hanohano 2011

See Gallery of Photos from Hanohano 2011

Read article about Hanohano 2011 Sup Race

Visit website for the Hanohano Race 2012

Do you have any other tip for the Hanohano course?