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Upcoming Events
The Nous Defions
8 Hour Team Paddle Assualt on Lake Keowee
Nous Defions 8-Hour Team Raid on Lake Keowee
Join us for an exhilarating day of paddling, competition, and endurance in the stunning surroundings of Lake Keowee. Whether you’re a recreational paddler, a competitive racer or a first-time paddler, this event promises challenges and excitement as you push your limits and strive for distance milestones.
Event Overview
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Date: September 14th, 2024
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Location: High Falls County Park, 671 High Falls Rd, Seneca, SC 29672
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Time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
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Registration: Open until filled, limited to the first 50 boats.
Race Categories
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Individual and Team Entries: Compete solo or in a team (2-4 paddlers).
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Boat Types: Stand-Up Paddle Board, Kayak, SurfSki, Canoe, Outrigger Canoe.
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Kayak Specifications: Must be 20" or wider.
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SurfSki Specifications: Less than 20" in width.
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Course Details
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Length: Approximately 2.5 miles per lap around a scenic inlet on Lake Keowee.
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Conditions: Flat water with limited wind and minimal boating traffic.
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Navigation: Clearly marked with buoys.
Competition Structure
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Team Dynamics: Teams may rotate paddlers in any sequence. Only one watercraft per team is allowed on the course.
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Safety Requirements: All individual paddlers must wear US Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Inflatable PFDs are not permitted.
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Minimum Age: Participants must be 14 years or older. Minors must wear a life jacket at all times.
Challenges and Goals
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25-Mile Challenge: Aim for 10 or more laps (recommended pace: 3 mph for average recreational paddlers).
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40-Mile Challenge: Target 16 or more laps (competitive pace: 5 mph or faster).
Registration Details
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Pricing:
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Solo Entry: $150
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Team Entry: $100 per team member
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Capitalize on this unique opportunity to compete, collaborate, and conquer in a picturesque setting. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot early and rise to the challenge at the Nous Defions 8-Hour Team Raid!
"Nous Defions" is French for "We Defy." This motto is associated with the U.S. Army Special Forces, commonly known as the Green Berets. The phrase traces back to the formation and ethos of the Special Forces units, who were established to conduct unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance missions, often behind enemy lines and in challenging environments.
"Nous Defions" encapsulates the spirit and mission of the Green Berets, reflecting their willingness to defy the odds, challenge conventional thinking, and operate with high autonomy and resilience. This motto embodies the courage, determination, and unconventional approach that Special Forces soldiers bring to their missions, emphasizing their readiness to take on complex and dangerous tasks that others cannot or will not do.
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With this spirit in mind, we challenge you to assemble a team of 2-4 individuals or compete solo in the Nous Defions 8-Hour Team Raid on Lake Keowee. Come out to High Falls County Park in Oconee, SC, on September 14th, 2024, and conduct an eight-hour raid on Lake Keowee. You and your team will compete to complete as many laps as possible during the 8 hours. The top 3 finishers in each boat category will receive awards, and all teams that complete either the 25-mile (10+ laps) or the 40-mile (16+ laps) challenge will be recognized.