Paddlefest hits Santa Cruz

Dozens of paddle boarders, surf-kayakers and wave skiers from all across the globe were in Santa Cruz this weekend for the 30th Annual Paddlefest.

“Paddlefest is a celebration of paddles,” said event organizer Mathew Hoff.

There were paddlers from all across the United States as well as Tahiti, Australia, Canada and Great Britain.

KION spoke with Jack Barker, a surf-kayaker from England. He said he had heard horror stories about some of the beaches in Santa Cruz because of the size and power of the waves.

“You go in there with a bit of apprehension,” said Barker, “but within the first couple days it is all easy enough.”

There were some wipe outs, but according to organizers the conditions were very favorable.

“We could not have asked for better conditions for our event,” said Hoff. “It was amazing.”