Athletes Ready to SUP at Dominion Riverrock
As Dominion Riverrock approaches, athletes like Bronwyn Comer are getting ready to race in the SUP events.
By: McKenzie Vergara
Stand Up Paddle boarding, or SUP, is one of the fastest growing water sports in the country, and it has certainly taken hold in RVA. Richmond resident Bronwyn Comer got her first taste of SUP at the 2013 Dominion Riverrock festival, and is eagerly awaiting this year’s event May 16-18 on Brown’s Island and Historic Tredegar so she can grab her board and hit the water again.
Comer entered her first SUP competition at last years’ Dominion Riverrock festival, which features two SUP competitions, SUP Enduro and SUP Cross, as well as trail running, mountain biking, live music, and interactive events. She had only been paddleboarding for two years and decided to sign up for the recreational level in the Enduro competition.
“I had no clue where I would stand as far as time or skill level,” Comer said. “And much to my surprise, I did finish as the fastest for the female group.”
Comer in action in 2013
After paddleboarding leisurely for a while, Comer wanted to push herself and get more out of her easygoing paddles. By directing some of her paddle time towards the next skill level, Comer was ready to try out more competitive SUP races.
“I’ve always enjoyed a good challenge and trying out a couple of SUP races seemed like a great way to push myself on a personal level while combining something I LOVE doing!” said Comer.
Being from Richmond, Comer is able to take full advantage of the James River traveling right through the city. She has many favorite local spots but ends up paddleboarding anywhere she can find water.
“I just love being outside and feel the most peace when I am standing on my paddleboard like I’m walking on water!” said Comer.
In addition to the two SUP competitions, Dominion Riverrock is offering free SUP demos for anyone interested in giving the sport a try. And there will be plenty of other activities going on as well – Riverrock brings in more than 60,000 spectators and participants to Brown’s Island and Historic Tredegar, making it the largest outdoor sports and music festival in the country.
Comer with her biggest fans, Esme (l) and Marek (r)
“I am so grateful to have Dominion Riverrock in my hometown. Every year I’ve gone it has been an amazing experience,” Comer said. “And there’s no doubt that getting to see some world class competitors going head to head against some of RVA’s locally-known athletes is quite special for us Richmonders!”
Registration for Dominion Riverrock’s May 17 SUP Cross and May 18 SUP Enduro is available at www.dominionriverrock.com.