In June 2012, Bob Purdy stand-up paddled the entire 80-mile length of Okanagan Lake in 19 hours for the first World Paddle for the Planet, in British Columbia. Purdy really does want to save the planet we all share and exhorts, “Stand-up paddling is one thing I can do to get people’s attention!”

 

World Paddle for the Planet 2012 was documented and publicized by The Stand Up Paddle Radio Show host Leslie Kolovich and photographer Joan Vienot. Kolovich was so impressed with Purdy’s passion and dedication that she is producing World Paddle For The Planet 2013, an eco-educational fundraiser festival culminating with a 24-hour paddle on coastal dune Lake Powell, in her home community of Panama City Beach.

 

The festival will be held in the village of Carillon Beach, from October 10 through 13. All types of paddle craft are welcome to paddle any portion of or all of the 24 hours beginning at noon, October 12. Along with satellite events around the world, the purpose is to educate and raise awareness of the message, “Be the change you want to see!” Funds raised benefit Justin Riney’s Expedition Florida 500, a project of the nonprofit Mother Ocean.

 

The family-friendly expo includes a NOAA exhibit with ocean creature touch-tanks and Sara Brenes, “the shark whisperer.” Norm Hann, from British Columbia, will screen his documentary film, Stand. Purdy and Riney will join Planet Paddlers from around the world for a public roundtable discussion, sharing their experiences and ideas for making change. With art, film, a family paddle, SUP-yoga and music, the festival is an opportunity for participants to be inspired and motivated, and to gain tools for making effective change when they return home.

 

Purdy started his personal mission on January 1, 2011, committing to paddle daily to build awareness of the need to change the way we live on our planet. By September, he will have paddled for 1,000 consecutive days. Purdy encourages everyone to make a single change in their life for the betterment of the Earth, commit to it and share it, thereby creating a wave of change—socially, economically and politically.

 

For more information and to register as an individual or as a team of up to 10 members, visit WorldPaddleForThePlanet.com.

 

Leslie Kolovich is the producer of The Stand Up Paddle Radio Show. To become a sponsor, contact her at [email protected].