Essex Marina City Club

ing board to present, many convinced Buddy to re-start the race, a responsibility the Chamber had been trying to give Buddy and other Lifeguard Association Directors for years. At last, Chamber executive Trudy Smart turned over the race by-laws and articles of incorporation. Buddy enlisted the support of some of the original channel paddlers, fellow county lifeguards, and Manhattan Beach resident Weldon “Gibby” Gibson to start the race again. Then, they put together the Catalina Classic 32-mile Paddleboard Marathon race. The rules were updated, changing the stock class board length from 14 feet to 12 feet. With the help of friends from the Catalina Channel Swim Federation, they garnered advice on the subject of logistics and safety as it related to channel crossings. Today the race is called The Catalina Classic.

Race registration is currently open and available at Paddleguru.com. Registration for open qualifiers will go until July 20. The Race Directors will attempt to fill all 100 entries based on pre-qualified applicants, open qualifier race results, and committee selections of international admissions. All open qualifiers will receive race entry confirmation or be refunded by July 31.

For more information on the Catalina Classic, please visit https://catalinaclassicpaddleboardrace.com/race-info/.

Liveaboard Slips Available

• Along the iconic Marina City Club tower condominiums and the Ritz Carlton, our renovated concrete docks are walking distance to dozens of restaurants.

• Slip fees include power, water, electronic access, a large storage dockbox, and access to renovated restrooms with showers. Features include free covered parking for boaters & guests, dock carts, laundry facilities, and a marketplace on site. Storage units for rent. Become a member of Marina City Club for pools, Jacuzzi, tennis courts, fitness center, and more.

• Liveaboard slips available, 35 foot and up. Short term guest slips upon availability.