PSK 1000 Islands Challenge

Format

• This is a collaborative challenge, please enter into the spirit of things.
• Open to Solo paddlers, Teams and K2/Doubles. Paddlers are recorded individually.
• All circumnavs to be recorded on GPS.
• Send in your .gpx (.fit or .tcx) file (no screen grabs!) and we'll do the admin.
• Points are allocated for each island (~1pt per km of shortest-distance circumnav). The longer the map circumnav the more points.
• Each island is to be circumnavigated with a distinct full-lap circumnavigation which returns to the start point for that island lap.
• For multiple-islands in one trip, each island must have a distinct full-lap circumnav before moving onto the next island - please paddle all the way around the island before moving on! (See image below)
• No portages allowed.
• 5 Bonus Points are awarded to the first circumnav of an island.
• Repeated attempts on an island are fine - they all count.
• Island Challenge paddles are eligible to 'double-up' on other PSK pages where applicable (and vice-versa) i.e. an Isle of Wight Circumnav can be submitted for both Islands Challenge and Isle of Wight Circumnav pages.
• UK Mainland and Ireland circumnavs are excluded.
• No backdated paddles. Start Date: 01-Jan-21
• Send in your circumnav via email or Messenger: facebook.com/PerformanceSeaKayak. (A guide how to download a .gpx file from Strava here).



Islands

• Our list of islands is not definitive, send us suggestions.
• To keep it realistic we have defined an island as a minimum of 1km to paddle around (at HW).
• We will consider smaller islands if they are named as such on OS Maps or Admiralty/Imray Charts (or if we just like the sound of the place).



Craft

• Sea kayak, Ski or SUP. Any craft you choose must be specifically designed to be suitable for your chosen venue and conditions, and it must be in a seaworthy and safe condition.
• All paddlers should be capable and experienced in paddling their chosen craft safely in all possible conditions.
• Different craft may be used for different circumnavs.
• All craft are to be rendered unsinkable, either by manufacturer design (bulkheads etc.) or via extra buoyancy devices (fitted airbags etc.)
• We do not consider inflatable craft as suitable for this challenge.



Assistance

• No sails, motors, support craft etc. - human paddle power only.
• No assistance from outside the paddling group.



Safety

• All paddlers must undertake an assessment of risk - for their chosen route, venue, craft, personal ability and conditions.
• Ensure you and your group are capable of handling any conditions or hazards possible on your chosen route.
• The management of any risk is entirely the responsibility of the paddler(s).
• Ensure your route avoids any exclusions or danger areas. Avoid shipping channels where possible and follow all local/national regulations as applicable.
• We make no claim or assurance that any of the islands listed are fully navigable. YOU need to research and plan to ensure they are a safe and realistic proposition.
• Paddlers are to wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) at all times whilst on the water.
• Helmets and leashes should be worn where applicable (helmets on moving/shallow water - quick-release leashes on Skis, SUP's etc where necessary).
• All craft are to be rendered unsinkable, either by manufacturer design (bulkheads etc.) or via extra buoyancy devices (fitted airbags etc.)
• Safety equipment such as VHF radio, PLB, flares, mobile phone, map, compass, shelter etc. should be carried as deemed appropriate in your risk assesment.
• Leave details of your route and time of return with a shore party and inform HM Coastguard as necessary.
• If you choose to paddle solo be aware of the significant extra risks involved.
• If you have any doubts - THEN DO NOT GO!

Circumnavigating multiple islands (from Kate Duffus) - click to enlarge.

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1000 Islands title - Natalie Maderova