Paddle Out participants with their surfboards, kayaks and other watercraft, line up for a photo on the shore.
Paddle Out participants with their surfboards, kayaks and other watercraft, line up for a beachfront photo. Credit: Courtesy Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) invites community members to participate in the annual Paddle Out Party (POP!), 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10 at Leadbetter Beach.

Featuring a variety of human-propelled craft, the paddle out competition will help SBMM raise funds via participants’ personal networks while providing the opportunity to receive prizes.

Paddle out participants can register as individuals or by creating or joining a team. Registrants may enter in one of five categories: swimmer, surfboard, stand-up paddle board, kayak/canoe, or dory/rowboat.

Teams can include up to five individuals. To register as an individual or create or join a team, visit https://bit.ly/SBMM_POP_2023.

“Join us for a gathering of the water tribe to show gratitude and raise funds for our beautiful SB Maritime Museum,” said 1977 World Champion Surfer Shaun Tomson, a SBMM board member and co-chair of the event.

“Grab a surfboard, kayak, SUP, canoe, bikini, or speedo – grab anything that floats – and join us on an awesome paddle out to uplift and inspire the community,” he said. “I am super stoked to be a part of this initiative to celebrate Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and our rich ocean heritage.”

The experience of paddling out is symbolic of the ocean bringing people together while honoring an individual. For SBMM, paddling out is a celebration of the museum’s commitment to the shared connections with the oceans and the underwater world.

“Our local ocean, enclosed by the rugged Channel Islands, brings us unique and fascinating history, and bestows endless opportunity,” said Kristin Larson, event co-chair. “I love the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum because it gives our community a home-base to learn about and celebrate this rich culture.”

Funds raised allow SBMM to showcase exhibits, provide hands-on educational experiences; and hold community events, all while highlighting 13,000 years of maritime history.

“This annual event honors our rich maritime heritage, from the Chumash, our first mariners, and through to modern day surfing, which also has a rich history here,” said Greg Gorga, SBMM executive director.

The Paddle Out Party is sponsored by George and Judy Writer, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Chuck and Mary Wilson, Hiroko Benko, Tim and Louise Casey, John and Tracie Doordan, and Suzi Sheller.
 
Learn more about the event at https://bit.ly/SBMM_POP_2023.