Vernon, BC – February 11, 2011 – The warm and colourful waters of Kalamalka Lake will once again play host to Canada’s premiere flatwater SUP race – And we’re making a Festival out of  it this year so there will be new events and more entertainment for everyone. Returning athletes will be treated to new courses and if it’s your first time, then you’ll get a chance to connect with the growing SUP community. Welcome to the 2011 Kalamalka Classic – Father’s Day Weekend, June 18-19^th, 2011.

A brand new race format will keep everyone on their feet (literally) and all of the events will be hosted on Kalamalka Beach, complete with a festival-like atmosphere. To appeal to both new and competitive athletes, there will be several new events like a team relay and for sprinters, the new short course will be great for the fans and spectators.  And since its Father’s Day weekend, we’re adding a few extras to make it a full family affair.

The Okanagan region has gained recognition as a premier destination for SUP and Kalamalka Lake is the ideal setting for a flatwater SUP showdown.  “We’re getting creative with the actual course designs so expect Saturday to be full of surprises” said Kevin O’Brien, event race director. “Sunday’s trek across the length of Kalamalka will cap off an exciting weekend and we’re stoked to have athlete’s like Beau Whitehead (Bellingham, WA) and Norm Hann (Squamish, BC) going head-to-head again”, added O’Brien.

An event website is being launched soon but for now, visit www.kalavidasurfshop.com to check for updates and more information.

About Kalavida Surf Shop

Kalavida – Canada’s first dedicated SUP shop, right across from Kalamalka Beach in Vernon, BC.  Fully stocked, and stoked, about the sport of Stand Up Paddle Surfing/Boarding, featuring Naish, Surftech, Rogue, C4, Quickblade, Kialoa, Werner, Dakine and more.  Visit the shop for SUP sales, SUP rentals, surf wear, tiki-bits and more.  Contact Info: 13908 Kalamalka Road, Coldstream (Vernon), BC. 778-930-0505. Shop Phone: 778-475-5808. www.kalavidasurfshop.com

Overview of the Event:

Dates: June 18-19, 2011
Location: Kalamalka Lake – Vernon, BC (4.5 hrs from Vancouver, 6 hrs from Seattle, 6.5 from Calgary)
Contact: info@kalavidasurfshop.com
Nearest Int’l Airport: YLW Kelowna (20 mins)
Nearest Major Int’ Airport: YVR Vancouver

Schedule of Events:
Friday: Clinic /  Recreational paddle / Free Demos

Saturday: Short Courses / Relays / Free Demos
Short Course – Recreational Race
Short Course – Competitive Race
Sprint Course
Relay Races, Kid’s Races
Dinner and special movie presentation:  ‘Stand-Up’ (Standup4 Greatbear Expedition by Norm Hann)

Sunday: Kalamalka Long Course
10-mile Long Distance race from the South to North end of Kalamalka Lake

NEW OVERALL AWARD FORMAT ANNOUNCED!
This year, the King & Queen of Kalamalka will be the one who places highest in a combination of events. Individual prizing will be awarded for each event.

Event Feature: (Long Distance – Length of Kalamalka Lake) 18km/10mi - The day that we’ll see the King and Queen of Kalamalka Lake crowned.  This is a scenic long distance paddle from Oyama to Kalamalka Beach in Vernon.  Expect the winning times to be under 1hr 50 minutes  for the 10-mile trek – An amazing chance to see one of the world’s most beautiful lakes up close and personal.

Event Fees and Registration: To be announced

Classes and Age Groups: To be announced

Prizes and Awards: To be announced