The 11th Annual Block Challenge

Paddlers for Humanity (www.p4h.org) has announced that the 11th Annual Block Challenge is set for Saturday, July 30th. The annual 18-mile open ocean paddle from Montauk to Block Island, dubbed the “NYC Marathon of The Hamptons,” has been the driving force behind the success of the organization. Since inception, the local non-profit has generated and donated more than $1-million to projects and programs dedicated to bettering the lives of children on the East End.

The paddle begins at 7 a.m. on the north side of the Montauk Lighthouse, will take approximately six hours, and ends at Champlin’s Marina. Once on Block Island, paddlers will celebrate their accomplishment at Champlin’s with a catered lunch complete with water, juice, beer and wine, followed by a ceremony thanking all involved. A return ferry ride to Montauk courtesy of the Montauk-Block Island Ferry from Viking Fleet departs Block Island at 5 p.m. Weather dates are July 31st, August 28th and August 29th.

The challenge is not limited to standup paddlers only, ‘paddlers’ in kayaks and outrigger canoes are also welcome and encouraged to participate. Paddlers must raise or contribute a minimum of $1,500 to participate, $750 for paddlers under 18-years-old. All paddlers in kayaks and outrigger canoes must wear a life preserver and all standup paddleboarders must use a paddle leash attached to their board. It is also suggested that in preparation for the challegnge, particpants complete a paddle of at least 10-miles. Support boats and jet skis will be in the waters manned by certified lifeguards. Register online at http://bit.ly/BlockChallenge16.

Last year, with the efforts of 52 paddlers, hundreds of donors and and the volunteer team combined, Paddlers for Humanity donated more than $150,000 to the following local programs: Bridgehampton School District; buildOn; East Hampton Heathcare Foundation; East Hampton High School; Family Service League; Hampton Lifeguard Association; Hoops 4 Hope; Project Most; i-Tri; Long Island Communities of Practice; and the refugee crisis in Greece.