The Deep South Downwind is an 18km (approx) race on the spectacular Lake Whakatipu on Saturday 5 December 2026. The race is open to surf skis, waka ama, foiling SUP and ocean racing SUP.
PADDLERS MUST BE COMPETENT IN THEIR CHOSEN CRAFT AND BE ABLE TO RE-MOUNT/SELF RESCUE PROFICIENTLY.
Entries open now! Get in quick to beat the price rise from 13 November. SLMC member discounts apply automatically (to single crafts only) if you enter your membership email adress in the applicable field below. Doubles or larger craft are discounted already :)
Start Location: TBC - Conditions Dependant.
Registration:Friday 4 Dec; 5pm - 7pm @ Altitude Brewing (Sugar Lane, Frankton)
Compulsory Gear Checks: Required for every competitor and happen at the start line on race day
Race Briefing: Everyone must attend the race briefing - location at race start, & time TBC
Start Wave 1 - time TBC - Open (average speed 8-10km/h).
Start Wave 2 - 20 minutes later - Elite (average speed 11-13+km/h)
Subject to change nearer race day.
Compulsory Gear: PFD, Leg Leash, Hi-vis paddlewear, charged Mobile Phone, Marine Flare, GPS Tracking using PredictWind Race Tracker, (also recommended is a whistle and PLB), clothing suitable for 9 degree water temperature
Thanks for entering the most unique downwind race in NZ!