Cold Stroke Classic in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

January 21, 2017 (Race starts at 10am)

Location

Blockade Runner at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Describe the Race

Shiver with your friends during one of the longest running paddle races on the East Coast. Race day begins with hot tunes from DJ Fray and coffee & bagels from Atlanta Bread Mayfaire. Racers can select from a long or short course option (one or two laps around Harbor Island). As with every Coastal Urge race, every SINGLE racer is guaranteed a fabulous prize from one of the race’s sponsors. (Patagonia, Carve Designs, The North Face, TOMS, Richer Poorer, Arc’Teryx, BanxBlock, Rainbow, Kaneon, Maui Jim, and more!) Rumor has it that there’s a pretty rad goody bag for all racers during check in this year, too.

Long course participants in divisions with three or more registered paddlers will also be eligible for cash prizes.

All paddle craft are welcome, including kayaks and surfskis, in the “Run what you Brung” category. (That is not a cash prize division.)

Why

A super fun winter race with friends to raise money for Nourish, NC, a charity that provides weekend and holiday food security to almost 700 children in New Hanover County, all year long.

PARTAY!

The title sponsor this year is the brand new Wrightsville Beach Brewery. They’re hosting the packet pickup, onsite registration, and pre-party from 5pm-8pm on Friday, January 20. Free beer & appetizers for all racers! It’s a great time with friends before the event kicks off.

The after party and awards are at the Blockade Runner in Wrightsville Beach, with a signature hot chili lunch & beer. Remember to bring cash for raffle tickets! Proceeds benefit Nourish.

Where to Stay

The Blockade Runner, host of the race, has an amazing special for racers! $85 sound-side rooms and $125 ocean-side rooms. All rooms come with their signature buffet breakfast, which you truly can’t beat on the Island. Call to register (910-256-2251) and ask for the “Cold Stroke Classic” rate or register online here: https://app.thebookingbutton.com/properties/blockaderunnerdirect?check_in_date=2017-01-20&check_out_date=2017-01-21&number_adults=2&promotion_code=stroke

What to Wear

2016 was an epically cold and windy race. Some paddlers donned ski gear to stay warm! Weather in Wrightsville Beach is variable, however. Bring layers so that you’re prepared for anything from 20 degrees and cloudy to 60 degrees and sunny. (One can hope!) Prone paddlers and paddlers with more appendages in the water should dress accordingly. For stand up paddlers new to winter racing, dress like you would for a run: dress in hydrophobic, breathable layers.

You don’t want to overheat but you also need to be protected if you fall in. Water safety boats will be present.

Race Profile: 9th Annual Cold Stroke Classic presented by Coastal Urge, Wrightsville Beach, NC