Welcome to our collection of the biggest news and stories that have taken place in the SUP world from the previous month. Let's recap what happened in January 2023.
Gla Gla Race - 2023
The GlaGla Race is one of the biggest stand up paddle races in the world organized by a very small team of enthusiasts, without great financial means, without big sponsors. 2023 was a cold event for the Gla Gla racers with competitors battling freezing temperatures and strong winds. To add to this, technical problems marred the race with the synchronization of participants’ files, not working. the race organisers deeply regret it, but the results have been posted here.
In 2024, it will be the 10th anniversary of the GlaGla Race and we intend to celebrate it with all of you!!
Starboard Race Range - 2023
Starboard have released three new race SUPs for 2023 where they have updated the Sprint and the All Star, plus Starboard have added a new board – the Sprint Expedition for touring.
Starboard have expanded their Sprint range to include 2 new, wider models with greater stability and crossover ability for long-distance touring. The 14’0″ x 27.5″ Sprint Expedition is designed for riders up to 110 kg who want solid stability and great speed. The 14’0″ x 29.5″ Sprint Expedition is designed for riders weighing up to 120 kg and seeking ultra-stability for long-distance adventures.
The Sprint has been redesigned for 2023. A new thicker slicing nose design displaces water with a cleaner release so you can paddle faster with less water wrapping and slowing you down. Rounded rails at the tall feel more forgiving in side chop and creates a more efficient release. A refined standing cockpit with more dug-out rails helps utilize the full width to give you more stability and control. Plus more!
The All Star has been redesigned for 2023. We have board widths for all rider weights and skill levels. 24.5″ and wider are suited for heavier riders, while 23″ and below are for higher-skilled and lighter riders. Available in light & strong Carbon Sandwich technology and best value Wood Carbon technology. The 2023 design has a narrower nose and tail outline to give you faster acceleration, higher top speed and greater efficiency. Plus more!
Naish Acquired by Kubus Sports - 2023
Naish, the legendary Maui based company of 24 time windsurfing world champion and pioneer of Stand Up Paddling, Kiteboarding, and Wingsurfing Robby Naish, has been acquired by Kubus Sports, a Netherlands based internationally leading sports equipment brands platform.
Kubus Sports has acquired Nalu Kai Incorporated, (the Maui based operating company of the Naish brand) as well as its subsidiary Pacific Board Sports, (Naish’ US distribution company.) With the acquisition of Naish, a leading brand in water sports equipment, Kubus Sports strengthens its global market position within the fun & water sports industry.
Naish and Kubus Sports have a long and respectful history of more than 20 years, whereby Kubus Sports has acted as a value-added distribution partner for Naish’ water sports equipment products in Europe. The sale of Naish to Kubus Sports takes the cooperation to a new level and will boost further growth and investment in the well-known and pioneering water sports equipment brand. Naish and Kubus Sports will integrate their organizations with the aim to further strengthen the product development, product portfolio, sales and operations.
Robby Naish will continue to drive product innovation and will stay on as brand ambassador. Naish’ Hawaiian headquarter will remain the core of the R&D program and heritage of the brand for future marketing. Naish’ sales organization on the US mainland will be further strengthened.