Contact: Gary Stone, president of Isthmus Sailboards and Paddleboard Specialists
608.849.0600 or 800.473.1153
gstone@isthmussailboards.com
http://www.paddleboardspecialists.com
PADDLE FOR THE POLAR BEARS!
Madison, Wis.—The fast-growing sport of stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is making waves (and raising funds!) on the waters of Lake Wingra in Madison, Wisconsin with a series of three introductory lesson sessions on Saturdays June 9, July 28 and August 18, 2012.
This is the third year for the Paddleboard Specialists “Paddle for the Polar Bears” event, which raises funds for the Henry Vilas Zoo’s state-of-the-art Arctic Passage exhibit, a home for polar bears and seals. Hosted by Paddleboard Specialists and Wingra Boats, “Paddle for the Polar Bears” is all about having a good time while engaging in a fast-growing, simple-to-learn water sport.
“Give me 10 minutes and I’ll have you paddleboarding. It’s easy, fun, and it’s a great workout,” says Gary Stone, event organizer and owner of local outfitter Paddleboard Specialists. “The gear required is minimal: a board, paddle, leash and personal flotation device…and you’re off!”
Anna Reynolds, executive director of the Henry Vilas Zoological Society, says, “We’re thrilled that Paddleboard Specialists and Wingra Boats are hosting this fun, popular fundraiser for the third year in a row. Madison residents love the Zoo and love being active, so learning how to paddleboard while helping to build the Arctic Passage is a win-win for everyone who participates.”
Paddleboard Specialists donates fifty percent of each $25 lesson to the Henry Vilas Zoo, while co-host Wingra Boats offers participants a special incentive to continue the fun by donating ten percent of any boat rental during Paddle for the Polar Bears. Wingra Boats is located adjacent to the event site.
Pre-registration is highly recommended as lessons fill up quickly; however, walk-in participants will be accommodated on a space-available basis. For more information or to register, visit http://www.paddleboardspecialists.com.
Paddleboard Specialists “Paddle for the Polar Bears” details:
Location: Wingra Park on Lake Wingra in Madison, Wis.
Dates: Saturday, June 9; Saturday July 28; Saturday, August 18
Time: Participants can select from lessons at 9:30 a.m.; 11:00 a.m.; or 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $25 (includes equipment rental)
Since 1984, Gary Stone has built his business around a passion for the water from the shores of Lake Mendota to the serious swells of Maui. A full-service retailer of paddleboarding and windsurfing gear based in Westport, Wis., Paddleboard Specialists and Isthmus Sailboards offer specialty equipment for enthusiasts both online and at a bricks-and-mortar location at 5495 Catfish Court, in Westport, Wis. For further information contact Gary Stone at 608.849.0600 or info@paddleboardspecialists.com
About the Henry Vilas Zoo – The Friends of the Zoo’s purpose is to build community support and provide funding for Henry Vilas Zoo improvements. This includes the acquisition, conservation, and replacement of animals; refurbishing and creating new exhibits; supporting educational programs; and improving the overall educational and recreational value of the zoo.
