Paddlers For Humanity Holding 9th Annual Block Challenge

Paddlers for Humanity is hosting its largest and most challenging event of the year, the 9th Annual Block Challenge 2014, on Saturday August 9, 2014, from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The 18-mile open ocean paddle is the heart of Paddlers for Humanity, which was founded in 2008, and has served as its motivation since the first competition, in 2004.

The six-hour paddle will begin on the north side of the Montauk Lighthouse (2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk), and end at Champlin’s Marina (West Side Road, Block Island, RI). From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., participating paddlers will rejoice in their achievement with a delicious catered lunch complete with water, juice, beer and wine along with a ceremony thanking paddlers and support boat volunteers. A returning ferry ride to Montauk, courtesy of the Montauk-Block Island Ferry from the Viking Fleet will depart Block Island at 5 p.m.

Dedicated paddler’s from last year’s event. (Courtesy Photo)

Paddlers must raise or contribute a minimum of $1,500 to participate, or $750 for paddlers under 18-years-old. All participants in kayaks and outrigger canoes are required to wear a life preserver, and all paddleboarders must use a paddle leash attached to their board. Paddlers must register by Thursday, August 7, 2014, online at www.z2systems.com. At least four support boats will be in the water along with three jetskis manned by certified lifeguards from the Hamptons Lifesaving Association.

Paddlers for Humanity is a local not-for-profit that donates to projects and programs dedicated to children and youth. Grants are awarded on an as-needed project basis and funds are raised through a series of sporting adventures and challenges.

For more information about Paddlers for Humanity, visit p4h.org.