The final countdown is on to the 2011 Merimbula Classic, and this year is sure to be the biggest in the events 30 year history. 

Over the last three decades, windsurfers, kitesurfers and most recently Stand up paddlers have flocked to the south coast of New South Wales, to ride at a little town called Merimbula. There's not much there, a few shops, a pub, a little sailboard club on the beach and semi reliable seabreezes that blow 25 knots from the north east most afternoons. It's a great event for all involved, particularly due to the fact there's no pressure - good conditions and plenty of other like minded wind and wave junkies out to have a good ol' time. 

The format for the Merimbula Classic is simple, you get up early, go stand up paddling for the morning. Get together with a group and then go on a couple of km downwinder in the afternoon.
At the end of the four days, the judges sit down over a beer and work out who the winner was. No points, no heats - just good, honest judging based on the whole event.

Last year there were more Stand up paddling entrants than kiteboarders or windsurfers, the first time ever! This just goes to show how popular the sport of stand up paddling has become over the last 5 years, with everyone keen to have a go. As well as the competitions and friendly paddling, retailers and manufactures have the largest range of gear ever assembled on the east coast for the upcoming 2012 season. If you've ever wanted to paddle all your dream boards in one morning - The Merimbula classic is the place to do it. 

With less than three weeks to go, if you haven't made plans to head down there; you better get to it! The stand up paddling events start on Thursday the 24th of November, and run through to Sunday Evening at the bowls club on the 27th November. Don't miss the presentation on Sunday night, with over $50,000 worth of prizes on offer, there's going to be something for everyone. 

To view the event program, check it out here on the Merimbula Sailboard Club website, or click here for more information on the event in general. 

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