Stand-Up Paddle Competition: Celebrate Inclusion and Athletes in Sarasota!

Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL 34235 - An exciting weekend lies ahead in Sarasota, as the Special Olympics will host its West Coast Region Stand Up Paddle Competition at Nathan Benderson Park on July 11-12, 2025. This thrilling two-day event aims not only to showcase the skills of local athletes but also to promote inclusion, courage, and the transformative power of sports. The competition takes place during the following hours: on Friday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., allowing ample time for spectators to cheer on their favorite athletes as they demonstrate their balance, strength, and skill on the water.

Organized by Special Olympics Florida, this event is particularly noteworthy as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has rapidly gained traction since its inception in ancient Polynesia. It combines the elements of kayaking and surfing, making it a captivating sport to watch and participate in. Volunteers are also encouraged to take part, further amplifying the community spirit surrounding the event. Anyone interested can reach out to Savannah Rock at savannahrock@sofl.org or call 689-348-0332 for more information about volunteering opportunities. Meanwhile, Danyelle Jones serves as the sports contact at danyellejones@sofl.org, available at 813-392-8107 for questions about the competition itself.

A Taste of Florida: Culinary Delights Await

If you’re in the mood to enjoy a heartwarming meal after cheering on the athletes, consider visiting Kōsen, located at 307 W Palm Ave., Tampa. This elevated Japanese dining experience focuses on both omakase and kaiseki-style tasting menus created by Executive Chef Andrew Huang. Kōsen emphasizes sustainability with zero-waste practices and partnerships with local farms, ensuring that each bite is as fresh as it is thoughtful. Please note that reservations are required.

For something more casual yet highly rated, JB’s Corner Cafe in Punta Gorda at 1533 Rio De Janeiro Ave offers delightful breakfast and lunch options that locals swear by. With a perfect 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor and an impressive 4.7 average on Restaurant Guru, it’s an ideal stop to refuel before or after the paddleboarding action.

Holistic Health on Display

In addition to these culinary options, the Natural Wellness Expo will be taking place from July 12-13 at 55 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. This expo promises to be enriching, featuring over 75 booths focused on holistic health, organic skincare, and various wellness topics. The event will feature expert speakers and provides a great venue for community members to learn, connect, and explore. Entrance fees are reasonable, with tickets priced at $10 per day, or $16–19 for a weekend pass. Children ages 12 and under can enter for free, and parking is ample and available at no charge.

Sarasota is gearing up for a weekend filled with community spirit, athletic achievement, and wellness exploration. Mark your calendars for a delightful experience whether on the water or at one of the local eateries! Celebrate the local talent and the growing popularity of stand-up paddleboarding—who knows, you might just catch the SUP bug yourself, as it’s a sport that beautifully blends fitness with fun!