The surf is up, and Sydney’s Northern Beaches are calling. The 2024 Shaw and Partners 20 Beaches Ocean Classic is set to make waves on Saturday, 19th October, marking its 30th anniversary with a return to its roots.
Event Overview
The 20 Beaches Ocean Classic is one of Australia’s premier ocean paddling races. This year’s event promises to be particularly special as it revives the original course, showcasing the stunning coastline of Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
Event Details | Information |
Date | Saturday, 19th October 2024 |
Start | Manly Beach |
Finish | Palm Beach |
Distance | Approximately 25 km |
Course Highlights
The race course stretches along Sydney’s picturesque Northern Beaches, offering participants a challenging yet breathtaking journey from Manly to Palm Beach. Paddlers will navigate through diverse ocean conditions, testing their skills and endurance.
Race Categories
Individual Divisions
Competitors can enter various categories based on age, gender, and craft type. These typically include:
- Open Men and Women
- Age group divisions (e.g., U18, U23, 40+, 50+, 60+)
- Different craft categories (e.g., surf ski, ocean ski, SUP)
Relay Division
New for 2024, the event introduces a relay option. This addition allows teams to share the excitement and challenge of the race, making it more accessible to a broader range of paddlers.
Registration and Entry
Entries for the 2024 Shaw and Partners 20 Beaches Ocean Classic open on 6th September. Early registration is recommended as spots can fill quickly for this popular event. You can register on their official website.
Prizes and Trophies
The 20 Beaches Ocean Classic boasts prestigious awards that recognise outstanding performances:
- Steve Wood Trophy: Awarded to the fastest male paddler
- Yanda Trophy: Presented to the fastest female paddler
- Add-Style Cup: Recognises the fastest young male and female paddlers (U18 and U23 categories)
These trophies carry significant prestige, with past winners including some of the biggest names in ocean paddling.
Junior Competitor Giveaway
Thanks to the generosity of AddStyle, Oceanpaddler, and RaceOne, junior competitors have the chance to win exciting prizes. This initiative aims to encourage and support young talent in the sport.
Charity Partnership
The 20 Beaches Ocean Classic proudly partners with Gotcha4Life, a charity dedicated to mental fitness. This collaboration aligns with the event’s commitment to not only physical challenges but also mental wellbeing.
Historical Significance
The 20 Beaches Ocean Classic has been a cornerstone of the ocean paddling calendar for three decades. Its return to the original Manly to Palm Beach course for the 30th edition is a nod to the event’s rich history and the enduring appeal of this challenging route.
Preparing for the Race
Competing in the 20 Beaches Ocean Classic requires thorough preparation. Paddlers should focus on:
- Endurance training: The 25km course demands significant stamina.
- Ocean skills: Participants must be comfortable in various ocean conditions.
- Equipment preparation: Ensuring your craft is race-ready is crucial.
Spectator Information
The race offers excellent viewing opportunities along Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Prime spots to watch the action include:
- Manly Beach (start)
- Collaroy Beach
- Narrabeen Beach
- Avalon Beach
- Palm Beach (finish)
Safety Measures
Safety is paramount in ocean events. The organisers work closely with local authorities and surf lifesaving clubs to ensure participant wellbeing. Competitors are required to meet specific safety standards and carry mandatory equipment.
Environmental Considerations
The event promotes environmental awareness, encouraging participants and spectators to respect the ocean and beaches. Efforts are made to minimise the ecological impact of the race.
Post-Race Celebrations
After the gruelling paddle, participants and supporters can look forward to a vibrant post-race atmosphere. This typically includes award ceremonies, sponsor exhibitions, and opportunities to connect with fellow ocean enthusiasts.
The 2024 Shaw and Partners 20 Beaches Ocean Classic promises to be an unforgettable event, combining athletic challenge with the natural beauty of Sydney’s coastline. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or an enthusiastic spectator, this iconic race offers a thrilling experience of ocean sport at its finest.
For those interested in other paddling events, check out our coverage of other water sports competitions in Australia.
Event | Date |
2024 Echuca Mini or Broken Creek Classic | October 12, 2024 |
2024 Clarence 100 – 106 KM Marathon River Paddle | October 11-13, 2024 |
Shaw And Partners WA Race Week 2024 | 11-17 November 2024 |
2025 Paddle Australia – National Wildwater Championships | 11-12 January 2025 |
As the event approaches, excitement builds for what is sure to be a spectacular showcase of athleticism, determination, and the spirit of ocean paddling. The 20 Beaches Ocean Classic continues to inspire and challenge paddlers from around the world, cementing its place as a must-attend event in the ocean racing calendar.