Mexico: Punta Sayulita Surf Classic pits boarders against the sea

Surfers and stand-up paddle racers will compete March 8-10 in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. (Punta Sayulita Surf Classic)

By Rosemary McClure

January 22, 2013, 8:15 a.m.

Surf and stand-up paddling (or SUP) fans can test their mettle against an international field of competitors when the fourth-annual Punta Sayulita Surf Classic kicks off March 8-10 in Mexico's Riviera Nayarit.

The weekend event, which raises funds for conservation and educational projects, features longboard and stand-up paddle surfing contests, plus SUP elite and distance races.

A surfing clinic also is scheduled for special needs and underprivileged children.

“This year's field is stacked with talent," said Kevin Roberts, the event director. "We are also very stoked to welcome back international reggae recording artist Mishka to perform a free benefit concert on the beach Saturday."

The event is named after Punta Sayulita, a resort community in Riviera Nayarit, which stretches north from Puerto Vallarta along the Pacific Coast. Several prime surfing beaches are in the area.

Winners do not receive monetary rewards, said Roberts.

“The primary consideration is to focus attention on environmental protection as well as to raise funds for the Reef Check Foundation’s area Eco-Diver Program and the Punta Sayulita Foundation’s children’s educational and sports development programs.”