Atten-hutt!!
A new year is upon us, soldiers. It's time to get your engine in tune for BATTLE! Come March 25th, an armada of warriors will slap the brackish waters of Old Fort Bayou with their paddles in a quest for glory. The sweat will pour like a waterfall. The screams of sore muscles will be deafening. The biting bugs will be waiting in ambush. The drink will flow like a river. The mouth watering aroma of tasty foodstuffs will make your stomach growl. Once you cross the finish line, the echoes of victory will ring eternal.
Enlist today!
If it's not broken, why fix it. BOB will adhere to the about-face of 2017. The 8.5 mile out and back, starting from and finishing at Gulf Hills struck a positive cord in veterans and noobs alike. On top of that, there were no annoying shuttles to deal with, the awards presentation was held indoors, and the smoother timeline was peaches and cream.
**tentative time line**
**tentative time line**
Gulf Hills Hotel and Conference Center is our headquarter hotel. They offer a special rate to Battle on the Bayou racers and spectators. Make your room reservations early. Call Toll free @ 866-875-4211 and ask for the Battle on the Bayou rate when booking your reservation. Rate is TBD per night plust 7% sales tax. For more info, visit gulfhillshotel.com.
Class Name | Length | Width | Gender | Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
K1 Pool Toy | ≤ 10' | N/A | Dudes / Chicks | All builds & constructions |
K1 Short | 10'1"- 12'6" | N/A | Dudes / Chicks | All builds & constructions |
K1 Medium | 12'7" - 15'6" | ≥ 22" | Dudes / Chicks | All builds & constructions |
K1 Long | 15'7" - 17'6" | ≥ 21" | Dudes / Chicks | All builds & constructions |
K1 Fast | ≥ 17'7"' | ≥ 19.6" | Dudes / Chicks | All builds & constructions |
K1 Race | Unlimited | ≤ 19.5" | Dudes / Chicks | See Below #1 |
SUP Surf | Unlimited | Unlimited | Dudes / Chicks | Surf style shaped boards |
SUP Race | Unlimited | Unlimited | Dudes / Chicks | Race style shaped boards |
SUP Pedal | Unlimited | Unlimited | Dudes / Chicks | Hobie Pedal Boards |
K1 Pedal | Unlimited | Unlimited | Dudes / Chicks | Solo Kayak Pedal Craft |
K2 Rec | Unlimited | ≥ 22.1" | Mixed | Recreational Tandem Kayaks |
K2 Race | Unlimited | ≤ 22" | Mixed | Racing Tandem Kayaks |
K2 Pedal | Unlimited | Unlimited | Mixed | Tandem Kayak Pedal Craft |
C1 Rec | ≤ 17'6" | ≥ 16% length | Dudes / Chicks | Recreational Solo Canoes |
C1 Race | Unlimited | Unlimited | Dudes / Chicks | See Below #2 |
C2 Rec | ≤ 17'6" | ≥ 16% length | Mixed | Recreational Tandem Canoes |
C2 Race | Unlimited | Unlimited | Mixed | See Below #3 |
1. (K1 Race) Skinny surf skis and Olympic K1 boats 2. (C1 Race) Solo Canoes that do not meet the Solo Rec class specifications 3. (C2 Race) Tandem Canoes that do not meet the Tandem Rec class specifications |
The boat classes have been designed with fairness in mind. Though, there must be balance between the sheer variety of boats on the market and the logistics of race management. The racer is responsible for accurately describing the make, model, width and length of their boat when registering. This is the information the race director will use to place you in your class. Disputes about boat classification will be handled accordingly by the race director. Intentionally using false information for your craft will result in disqualification.
We wholly welcome families and children to join in the fun. Minors under the age of 12 must be accompanied in a tandem boat with an adult. Minors aged 12-17 may paddle solo. In both instances, a parent or guardian must sign a waiver for the minor to participate.
Only human propelled craft are allowed to enter the event.
The race will proceed in rain or sun. Be prepared for inclement weather. However, we will not race in thunder storms. The event will either be delayed for the same day or canceled entirely. If the race is canceled, racers will still receive all swag entitled to them. Registration fees will not be refunded.
Various safety/spotting boats will be out around the race course if an emergency arises. An emergency contact # will be provided at check-in for use during the race. We strive to make the course as safe as possible, but accidents and emergencies can arise. Please be prepared for unforeseen circumstances by having the right equipment.
The use of alcohol/controlled substances before or during the race is prohibited and will result in disqualification.
Required and Suggested Equipment BOB is an American Canoe Association (ACA) affiliated race. The ACA requires a Coast Guard approved PFD (must be worn throughout entire race) *violators will be subject to the decision of the race director* We highly suggest bug spray. The gnats in Gulf Hills have been known to haul off children and small kayaks.
Bib numbers are to be securely attached to the left side front of your boat and front of your PFD. Duct tape and safety pins will be provided. *Inadequate placement of your # may result in inaccurate, missing or delayed race time*
All arguments will be resolved by the BOB race director, whose outcome is final.