Booth competing on unlimited SUP for first time in Doctor Race
Michael Booth has set a new challenge for himself competing for the first time on an unlimited SUP board in the upcoming Doctor Race to be held this Saturday 25th November.
The 27km paddle from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach, Western Australia, known as ‘The Doctor’ is said to be one of the most challenging and exciting races of the year, as paddlers take on their individual approach to the competition.
“It’s important to get a good feel for the conditions of the ocean leading into the event, thinking about what might give you the best run home to Sorrento”, said Booth.
After competing five times in the Doctor Race on the surf ski, Booth expressed that he is excited to compete in the race on a different craft this year.
“I am looking forward to changing it up this year and competing on the unlimited SUP for the first time.
“The unlimited is very different to the 14ft or 12’6 that I typically compete on as it is longer and has a rudder to steer with giving it a similar feel to chasing runners on the surf ski, so I am having a lot of fun with it”.
Booth recently won the 20km marathon race at the Australian SUP Titles held on the Gold Coast last week, keeping his confidence at a peak heading into this weekend’s race.
Despite a couple of hiccups along the way, Booth certainly has had a promising year of racing results and hopes to add the Doctor to the host of titles he has achieved over the season.
Michael says ‘changing things up’ in his training approach towards the end of the year has been invaluable, keeping him motivated.
“I’ve slightly changed my training routine to keep the mind fresh towards the end of the racing season, particularly working on my skills and downwinding a lot”.
Booth placed 2nd in the Sunset Surf Series on Thursday 23rd November in a tight fought downwind battle against James Casey from Port Beach to City Beach.
“It was a good hit out and definitely gained some confidence leading into the big one on Saturday”
The Doctor race is scheduled to race on Saturday 25th with perfect downwind conditions forecasted.
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