A Date With The Strait

Three adventurous mates, Zeb Walsh, Jack Bark and Brad Gaul have just entered the history books by paddling across Bass Strait from the mainland to Tasmania.

Zeb, Jack and Brad have one thing in common. All three of these young men have been victorious in the biggest paddle board race in the world, the Molokai2Oahu in Hawaii. This makes them world champions.

Now they have created history by being the first people to cross this stretch of water via paddle board. However, the trip wasn't all plain sailing er... paddling, the trio was forced to stay longer than planned on Hogan island due to bad weather. In all, the trip took eight days to paddle the 150-mile journey.

Their longest day was the fifth day where the athletes paddled for an incredible 65 kilometres.

In a video posted to YouTube announcing the challenge, Walsh admitted their record attempt could easily go wrong: "No-one's ever done it before and I feel like because it's in my backyard it's one of those things I want to do," he said.

"There's plenty of dangers -- mother nature can throw anything at you. There's the marine life out there, there's a few big fish in that area."

However, the boys prevailed and arrived safely on the Apple Isle at 6.10pm on March 3.

Meanwhile, this Sunday March 9 marks the start of the first ever Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Expo on Pittwater. Hosted by the Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay, as part of the Pittwater Festival, the Expo opens from 8am to 3pm. 

Events include a 6km Scotland Island SUP Race with more than 100 flailing competitors aboard One Design craft, inflatable SUP racing, try-before-you-buy demos, expert tips and advice, family time trials, a celebrity race and kids activities. 

The Lucky entry prize is a SUP and paddle valued at $1300 that’s a perfect addition to your yacht or cruiser. The RMYC welcomes visitors and has club grub. More at www.royalmotor.com.au.