The SUP Alps Trophyy has exciting new features in store for the 2025 season. At the opening event in Graz from 27 to 29 June, paddlers and spectators will experience two innovative race formats. The ISUP Downriver Funrace and the Time Trial Pro Longdistance promise action on the Mur right in the heart of the Styrian capital. This year's race series comprises a total of seven SUP Race Festivals.
Downriver Race opens the festival
The Graz River Days kick off on Friday evening with the ISUP Downriver Race over a distance of 6 kilometres. Unlike classic SUP races, there are no turning buoys here. Instead, the athletes follow the natural current downstream and have to adapt to the changing conditions. The finish line is in the centre of the city, where the award ceremony takes place afterwards in the soap factory. The race counts towards the fun class classification of the SUP Alps Trophy.
Time Trial as a new highlight
On Saturday evening, a completely new race format will celebrate its premiere with the Time Trial Pro Longdistance. Over a distance of 10 kilometres, the participants start at one-minute intervals. This format, which is reminiscent of time trials in cycling, promises particularly exciting competitions. Half of the prize money of 2,000 euros awaits the fastest woman and the fastest man. They can call themselves the "Queen of Speed" and "King of Speed" of the Graz River Days. The results are included in the Pro Longdistance classification of the SUP Alps Trophy.
Classic Tech Race on Sunday
The festival concludes on Sunday morning with the Tech Race. Here, the athletes compete in a knockout system on a course with turning buoys. This format is considered one of the most exciting in SUP racing and offers both beginners and experienced paddlers the opportunity to gain valuable competition experience.
Supporting programme and organisation
In addition to the sporting competitions, participants can look forward to an attractive supporting programme. The event site at the Seifenfabrik is located directly on the river and offers ideal conditions for athletes and spectators. Photographer Andy Klotz will be documenting the event, while Rudy van Haven as race director and presenter will ensure fair sport and a good atmosphere. Normen Weber, Gerd Weisner and their team will be responsible for the professional timekeeping and organisation in the race office.
Styrian national championships
A special feature of the Graz River Days is the integrated classification for the Styrian national championships. All athletes who belong to an ASF-affiliated club in Styria automatically take part in this additional classification - regardless of their nationality. The SUP Club Graz is responsible for organising this championship.
Outlook for the season
The Graz River Days mark the start of a promising SUP Alps Trophy season 2025. With a total of seven festivals in different countries, the series offers athletes of all levels the opportunity to compete and present the fascinating sport of stand up paddling to a wide audience.
Programme of the Graz River Days 2025
27 June 2025:
- 18:00: ISUP Downriver Race (6 km)
28 June 2025:
- 18:00: Time Trial Pro Longdistance (10 km)
29 June 2025:
- 10:30: Tech Race (knockout system)
Stephan Gölnitz
Deputy Editor in Chief surf
