Beat the Heat – Summer Paddle @ Spring Creek – 8/16/2025

What do you do when it’s 100 degrees in the shade, and way too hot to saddle up? Break out the kayaks and find some spring water to cool you off, of course! The August 16th STA Monthly Ride was replaced with the Beat the Heat: STA Paddle. After a slight delay, we got off to a fabulous start. Sandy J. on “Knot for Sail”, Regine K. atop “Dock Holiday”, and June & Tim O. on “Seas the Day” took an early lead. Hot on their pursuit followed Dawn & Scott K. on “Usain Boat”, and our newlyweds – John P. & Lora K. – with “Fin & Tonic” and “Ship Happens.” Our slow riders, Karen S. with “Vitamin Sea,” Donna R. on “Sea Renity,” Joyce P. on “Sail LaVie,” Brandi E. atop “Sea Crab” and myself upon “Pier Pressure” took up the back. Rare husband sightings were made by Brandon M. on “Aquaholic” and John R. with “Fishful Thinkin.” We also had guest appearances by Danny on “Yakkity Yak” and Sheila C. with “Sea-esta Time.” In all we had 17 “riders” and even a couple pups! We put in just under 4 miles in about 3 hours down the Spring Creek and Chipola River. A great time was had by all, and we hope this will be an annual option in the future!
Submitted by Jessica M.