Hawaii's biggest paddling event is on this weekend, and its set to be a cracker with over 700 entrants already registered, with more to come on the day.

Set on the iconic Duke Kahanamoku Beach in Waikiki, Honolulu - the annual battle of the paddle (BOP) is a massive event on the international Stand up paddling calendar. Athletes from all over the world pit their skills against one another in the hope of winning a share in the $25,000 prize money on offer. To win, they must compete in a surf style championship, which involved a quick run, paddle out through the surf and 'round a few buoy's, (sorry, boo-ey; they're american) then back to the beach for a run to the finish line. Of course there's heaps of divisions from juniors to pro's - and also family based events for a little less stress. 

On the beach amongst the thousands of spectators will be manufacturers booths and demo's, live music and all the usual event shenanigans. The Hawaiian party always goes on long into the night, albeit without most of the competitors who are tucked away in bed, ready for the next days gruelling races. 

Everyone who who enters the BOP event will receive an awesome pair of Battle of the Paddle Rainbow Sandals, event tee, lunch and a goodie bag full of brochures from the sponsors - but thats only half of the cool stuff, everyone goes just to be part of the event, and to make up the numbers for a world record attempt. Last year they broke the record with 230 paddlers out at one time - a pretty amazing sight. This year they hope to make it well over the 300 mark. 

Stay tuned for a full recap on who won, who scored the prizes and what they all got up to at the after party next Monday, or check out the live feed at battleofthepaddle.com

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