It was the most fun you could have in the sun both on and off the water this weekend at the Paddle Round the Pier Beach Festival on Hove Lawns. From sandcastle building to skateboarding acrobatics, scuba diving to Stand Up Paddle Boarding, rock climbing to bouncy castles, kayaking to slacklining and a lot of activities in between Paddle Round the Pier village had it all to try or, if you were really adventurous, buy. A fabulous line up of contemporary bands kept the west end rocking through the weekend, whilst elsewhere strains of The Beach Boys reverberated round the parked up VW campers to keep the surfing mood mellow. Fab foodie treats and tasters were on offer, alongside exotic cocktails or the ever reliable pint to wash it all down with.
Out on the water the competition was hot with classes for for Swimming, Surf Lifesaving, Outrigger Canoes, Sailing Dinghies, and SUP [Stand Up Paddle boarding]. The Paddle Something Unusual race and the Paddle Round the Pier race around West Pier itself attracted a huge number of entrants, to the delight of spectators and contestants both on and off the water.
I was lucky enough to be invited on board The Grand Hotel's luxury yacht, AnnabelOlivia to watch the main event. An idyllic afternoons sail, before plunging back in to the last of the beach action.
A truly enjoyable weekend, even more so knowing that all the proceeds go to charity. A big thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors who made it possible, especially the RNLI and various club safety boats who kept watch over the adventurers on the water. Can't wait for next year!
All photos ©Julia Claxton. Copies can be purchased for personal use through this website. For press and commercial use, and all other enquiries or to commission photography please use the contact page to get in touch.
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