Summer Showdown Day 1:
A large part of racing and events is getting your logistics sorted. With boards, paddles, and athletes all coming from different places, ensuring all is in place at the right time can be stressful, but the more you do it the easier it gets, the right mind set also helps.
This weekend is another good test of that preparedness, and I have been impressed by our younger athletes (14 🇬🇷), (16 🇬🇧 🇪🇸) and (🇳🇱 🇩🇪) have flown ✈️ in, dialed in loaned equipment, tested some fin and paddle prototypes, and prepared themselves for the distance race on the River Thames. Zero stress, methodical, fully professional.
On the water it is always inspiring to see well prepared and talented athletes and we can all learn by watching and talking to them, so if you are at the event do stop one of the young athletes and ask them a question, and of course despite being from other countries they speak perfect English.
The social paddler to the was so much fun with 50+ paddlers and a glass of fizz thanks of Nick, a nice touch. Heading back at sunset 🌅 we enjoyed surfing boat wakes!
Now for the races with a range of fleets and distances it promises to be a fun day of action.
Black Project SUP
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Black Project was founded on Maui in 2010, the original home of standup paddle boarding.
Black Project is in innovative manufacturer of SUP Paddles & SUP Fins based in Maui, Hawaii.
Avon session done with and now heaving to Henley for the Summer Showdown, see you there.
lng
20/08/2026
FREE open training session on the Avon River 🇬🇧 with BLACK PROJECT SUP founder Chris Freeman at 📍 Eckington Bridge 📆 Saturday 22nd August 8:45am start.
If you want to experience what performance paddling, SUP training for racing and fitness is all about then come join us.
You’ll be shocked at how fast you can progress.
Bring your board, paddle, enthusiasm, and a cold drink. Some race boards and paddles will be available to use.
If you have never paddled but have a background in running, cycling, swimming, triathlons etc. reach out and we’ll organize some crossover sessions to get you up to speed on the water.
Full details and signup on the Worcs Gloucs SUP Squad FB page.
Let’s go!
TotalSUP
Summer Showdown | Race & Demo event
📆 22/23 August 2026
📍Henley, UK 🇬🇧
We’re heading to the Summer Showdown this weekend.
We’re looking forward to joining the crew on the River Thames for a brilliant weekend of paddling, racing, and a festival atmosphere.
Come and say hello, paddle with us, and take the opportunity to try some of the latest Black Project paddles on the water.
We’ve also got some special guest athletes flying in for the weekend 👀
🇩🇪
lng 🇩🇪
🇬🇧 / 🇪🇸
🇬🇷
Saturday evening, we’ll be joining the social paddle along the Thames to watch the Henley Rewind Festival, before attention turns to Sunday’s main event — the 9km Summer Showdown.
With some of the fastest young paddlers from the UK and Europe lining up, expect a serious battle on the Thames 🏁
Big thanks to for putting together what looks set to be a fantastic weekend.
If you’re coming to Summer Showdown, make sure you come and find us.
See you on the Thames.
04/08/2026
Lighter, faster, stronger (and better for your body).
Introducing the Ultimate Series: Redefining Paddle Construction Meet the Ultimate Series SUP paddles—our most advanced paddle yet, combining cutting-edge materials, reduced weight, and refined performance.
24/07/2026
Nexus Element Series paddles heading to Bray Lake Watersports from Maui, enjoy!
17/07/2026
Over the years I have built paddles in all weird and wonderful places, hotel room, parking lots, beaches, but a few tools and my mobile paddle building setup is in full swing, not as efficient as the workroom but getting the job done on the road!
A brace of backyard paddle builds for James T ready for this weekend, enjoy. Thanks to for the delivery 🚚
For me after a quick week in the UK it is time to head home with some very accomplices.
08/07/2026
x new FoilX paddle, available exclusively from via Edo.
Comment Edo if you want to receive more information and get your name on the lists, limited availability, many pre-sold, will be on Oahu Friday.
.bs or .sup ✍️ comment below ⬇️
08/07/2026
FoilX 3-piece | the SUP foil traveler and Parawinger’s dream 💭
Packs easy for backpack storage.
Parawing up, SUP foil down.
We have a limited number of these paddles so reach out and grab one for your adventures.
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.