Kayaks vs Surf Skis, Rentals and The Clifftop Challenge
As you all hopefully know by now, Flow Kayaks is supporting the multisport event at the Clifftop Challenge on 4th November this year.
We want the race to be as accessible as possible. So, once again, we've partnered with River Ninja Rentals to provide kayaks for this event and they're being super generous in the process, so keep reading.
I hear you asking "Wouldn't a surf ski be more beneficial?"
Well, under normal circumstances, we'd wonder that too. However, Kerry and her experienced team have placed safety measures for both you and your boat for good reason.
Here is the extract from the 'Rules and Safety' page of the Flow Kayaks Multisport Challenge:
“Kayak Information
Kayak must be sea-worthy, safe, and within your ability to use.
Please note that kayakers should have a surf ski with a stern rudder OR a multisport kayak. This is because each kayak course either incorporates the estuary at Le Bons Bay (short course), or MAY INCORPORATE the estuary (long course Plan B option). The depth of the water will vary, and while it will be high tide during the kayak section of the race it will be shallow in places - an under keel rudder may get damaged.
If you are bringing a multisport kayak then you will need a Grade 2 certificate. If you are an experienced kayaker without a Grade 2 then please get in touch with us to discuss your experience. The Grade 2 certificate is only to ensure you are capable of doing a 'wet exit' if necessary.
If you still wish to use a surf ski with an under keel rudder then it is at your own risk. We won't stop competitors from doing so, but will not be held accountable if any damage occurs.
NOTE: if you are bringing a surf ski to race then you do not need a Grade 2 certificate."
So, you'll note that it is advised that surf skis have a stern rudder (like a multisport kayak). Not a requirement, but advised so as to not damage your ski.
If you have a later model Flow Kayaks Ski there may be the fittings already on your boat to be able to hook up a stern rudder quite simply. If you're interested in this or have questions, please contact us.
We also have some slots available for the custom manufacture of skis available prior to the race with delivery in October. The fittings to switch between the keel rudder and stern rudder are now standard on all new Flow Kayaks Skis. The stern rudder kits are an optional add-on.
Rental skis with stern rudders are hard to come by, ski's period in fact. We have very few left if any by the time you're reading this.
Enter, River Ninja Rentals. The reason there's no shortage of kayaks for rental in the world of multisport. They're more than a service provider, more a partner of athletes and their goals in our great code.
River Ninja Rentals are offering 15% off kayak rentals for the Flow Kayaks Multisport Challenge.
They have a fleet of Aspires, Rockstars and even a Rush or 2, as well as, other kayaks for different abilities. Everyone can be catered for.