Paddle 5K for a Chance to Win Starboard’s New Gen R Race Board

With the international paddle season in full swing, Starboard has launched a global challenge designed to get paddlers of all levels on the water. In collaboration with Waterspeed, a popular app for tracking watersports sessions, the company is offering stand-up paddlers a unique opportunity: complete a 5-kilometer paddle, log it in the app, and enter to win a brand-new Starboard Gen R, the brand’s latest flat-deck race board.

The challenge is open from June 13 to July 13 and is accessible to anyone aged 18 or older. Participation is simple: download the Waterspeed app, sign up for the challenge, and track a single 5K paddle session — whether it’s on an inflatable, a hard board, or any brand.

A Simple Concept with Global Reach
With no purchase required and the challenge open to all SUP board types, Starboard’s “Paddle 5K” initiative aims to connect the worldwide paddling community through a shared goal. According to the campaign, paddlers can log multiple sessions, but only the best one will be considered for the prize draw.

The event is both inclusive and competitive — with paddlers in different corners of the world encouraged to push themselves while being part of a broader collective effort.

What’s at Stake?
The grand prize is a Starboard Gen R Blue Carbon Sandwich board, complete with a board bag. The winner can select their preferred size, although Starboard notes that availability will vary by country, and shipping could take up to six months depending on production timelines. Import taxes or duties may also apply based on the recipient’s location.

In addition, 20 participants will receive Waterspeed Pro accounts, giving them extended access to features tailored for water-based performance tracking.

How to Take Part

To join the challenge:

• Download Waterspeed (iOS or Android).
  www.waterspeedapp.com
• Navigate to the Community tab and enroll in the “Starboard Gen R 5K Challenge.”
• Paddle 5 kilometers, track the session with the app, and submit your sessions.
• Follow Starboard SUP on Instagram and YouTube, and subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated.

Once the challenge ends on July 13, a winner will be randomly selected from all qualifying entries. Participants will be notified by Starboard via email or direct message.

A Celebration of Paddling
This initiative reflects a broader trend in paddle sports: making competitive-style events more accessible to everyday athletes and enthusiasts. Rather than requiring travel to a specific location or participation in an organized race, the 5K challenge lets paddlers set their own course — whether on open ocean, lakes, rivers, or canals.

With Starboard’s international reach and Waterspeed’s growing user base, the challenge is poised to attract a wide audience. It also serves as a creative way to spotlight the Gen R, Starboard’s latest addition to its performance-focused lineup.

Terms and conditions
For full terms and conditions, participants are advised to visit Starboard’s website or contact the campaign organizer directly at kristina@star-board.com.

Final thoughts: Whether you’re training for your next SUP race or just looking for a reason to get back on the water, this global 5K challenge could be a motivating — and potentially rewarding — way to do it.

Will you be the one paddling away with a brand-new Gen R?