Washburn to Host Moriarity Paddle Race

Santa Cruz, California - With the 2010 Surftech Jay Moriarity Memorial Paddleboard Race less than a week away, paddlers from Florida to Hawaii and beyond are gearing up to make the trip to Northern California to compete in this prestigious event. Locally paddlers gliding along outside the kelp beds have become a common site as they prepare themselves for the 12 mile endurance challenge.

New this year will be honorary speaker and host of the Jay Moriarity pre-race tribute, Grant Washburn. Grant and Jay were close friends and both thrived on the adrenaline rush of charging skyscraper sized waves. "I'm honored to have our good friend and accomplished big wave rider, Grant Washburn opening the Jay Ceremony this year." said Kim Moriarity "I'm looking forward to everyone gathered together before the Jay Race, to reflect and celebrate the Life that Jay Lived. I know that Jay would be absolutely stoked to have us all here on his behalf, sharing in something he loved.... paddling."

New categories added to this year event include a Lifeguard Team competition. Lifeguards and Junior guards who paddle in the 12 mile long-course race will accumulate points for their respective lifeguard organizations.

Another new event coming to the Jay Race this year will be the three person sprint relay race. Three person teams will share one board while paddling through a triangular race course as fast as they can. "We feel the addition of the relay race will add yet another fun element to an already great event." said Surftech General Manager John Griffith "The relay gives families, kids and adults the opportunity to compete together as a team. With the course only being approximately 800 meters anyone can do it and have fun."