Make History: Take Part in the Last Key West Paddle Classic!

As we approach the iconic Key West Paddle Classic on September 28, we had the opportunity to chat with Sue Cooper, the dynamic owner of Lazy Dog Adventures, renowned for its kayak tours and rentals around Key West. For the past 12 years, Sue has been the driving force behind this epic event, which has grown to become one of the largest paddle events on the East Coast. Originally started in 1997, the Key West Paddle Classic is celebrating its 27th anniversary in 2024. Sadly, this will be the final edition unless a new organizer steps forward. Join us as Sue shares her journey, the evolution of this beloved race, and what makes Key West a premier destination for paddling enthusiasts.

Hello Sue, first of all, could you share a bit about your journey from your initial sports background to becoming the founder of Lazy Dog and a prominent figure in the Key West paddle boarding community?

I went to college and studied Sports Management but really all I wanted to do was play Division 1 soccer which I did 4 years at UMASS Amherst.  When I graduated I knew I loved business and sports so I got a job at an International footwear company in Connecticut.  After 5 years working corporate I quit my job after winning Executive of The Year to follow my dream of living on an island and opening my own business.  I didn’t know what type of business but one day I saw a kayak tour go by and thought that looked like fun.  I got a job ad shortly after purchased the company. I have been in business for 26 years.  I really enjoy the “job” of running a business and growing a business which is why I am still very involved in my business.  I have put on many different events and travelled around the country paddle board racing, setting up a booth and selling our Lazy Dog apparel and meeting many people throughout the industry.  My business is definitely what I would call a lifestyle business as it is a job that fits around my lifestyle.

The Key West Paddle Classic has been a staple event for 27 years, with 12 under your leadership. Can you tell us about the origins of this event and how it has evolved over the years?

The Key West Paddle Classic started more as a prone paddle event with a few kayaks in 1997.  Around 2010 with the explosion of standup paddling the race became primarily standup.  Now the race is growing in the surfski and outrigger canoe categories. The race scene in general has tapered off, however there are lots of fun smaller races around.

This year marks the last edition of the Key West Paddle Classic. Can you explain why you’ve decided to make this the final event, and is there a possibility someone else might take over in the future?

No other reason other than it just feels like its time.  My business, Lazy Dog Adventures, has been growing over the past few years and I’d like to put more energy into the business as well as some side projects with content for small businesses.  I plan on diving back into my youtube channel with business and lifestyle content to encourage others to create a life they love and make a living they enjoy.  I’ve had someone who has asked about continuing the race.  I’m open to it, anyone who is interested can keep the race going.

What makes Key West such an appealing destination for tourists, particularly those interested in stand up paddleboarding and kayaking?

Key West (and the Florida Keys) is surrounded by mangroves and shallow and clear water making it an epic place to paddle.  On top of the average year round temperature is 78 degrees making it ideal any time of the year to paddle.

What sets the Key West Paddle Classic apart from other paddleboarding events around the world?

Our race is open to ALL categories.   We like to say “if you can paddle it, you can race it”.  It’s about having fun and challenging yourself so we try to keep a light approach to the event, if it leads to more fun, then the answer is yes.

You’ve also built Lazy Dog into a successful brand. What’s your vision for Lazy Dog moving forward, especially in terms of promoting the paddleboarding lifestyle?

Lazy Dog started as a kayak (and apparel) business then standup in 2007.  One of my favorite parts of running the business is we get people who come out who have never paddled before.  It’s so fun to have that experience with someone.  And if we do it the right way (fun and safe and knowledgeable) we can be part of promoting the sport.  As one of my favorite paddle people, Brody Welte (from PaddleFit) used to say, “be a good ambassador to the sport”.  If people have a good time they will continue to paddle wherever they go.

Besides running Lazy Dog and the Key West Paddle Classic, you’re also passionate about business coaching. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to turn their passion for Stand Up Paddling into a thriving business?

As my mom used to tell me (before Nike) growing up “just do it”.  If you’re passionate about it then it won’t feel like work.

For more information / registration:
Key West Paddle Classic on Facebook
Register on PaddleGuru
Key West Paddle Classic on TotalSUP