Inoke Tuhukava and Stuart Murray will attempt what has never been tried before.  To complete the 111km overnight ultra-marathon paddle down the Hawkesbury river on November 1-2 2008.  Although this is an established paddle race called the Hawkesbury canoe classic this is the first time Stand Up Paddlers have applied to be a part of the race which raises funds for the Arrow Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation.

In the spirit of sportsmanship and aloha Stand-up paddle surfing combines the elements of two traditional Hawaiian ocean sports: canoe paddling's paddle, and longboarding's surfboard. Surfers paddle into waves and ride, always in the standing position.  In a call to the roots of surfing Stand Up Paddle Core Values are respecting the ocean and environment, a sense of community and the joy of sharing the ocean.   

Training for the event has meant hours of training, refining equipment and hitting the fund raising trail which surprisingly has providing some of the most rewarding moments.  Take the case of one 12 year sponsor boldly putting 50 cents up and declaring his confidence in me to complete the event.  "That has sure fired me up and now I am looking for every extra edge I can find".

The Classic has its share of pitfalls and challenges.  Four degree temperatures, fog, patches of pitch black lighting will mean the Land Crew will have there work cut out for them as well.  They pray for favourable conditions come race day and know what ever transpires they will be called upon to deliver from their paddling hearts as well as their bodies

    Stuart Murray competing in this years Dukes Ocean Fest Stand Up Paddle Semi-final

Inoke Tuhukava prepares for his river assault in classic Inoke style