Paddle at the Porch Race Held for 5th Year in Destin

DESTIN, Fla. - Aug. 4, 2016 - PRLog -- The Emerald Coast is famous for its miles of sugar white sand and emerald green waters that bring visitors year-round to enjoy. Throughout the summer, tourists and residents alike can be found out in the waves on surfboards, paddleboards, jet skis, and floats. Paddle at the Porch is an opportunity to show those paddleboard skills and have fun in the meantime.

The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster Bar is the location for the races with the event right behind the restaurant on August 20^th, 2016.  For its 5^th year, contestants will participate in four different races: 1 mile beginner, 3 mile recreational, 6 mile elite, a kids' fun race, and new to this year – a relay. Awards will be presented to the 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place overall winners as well as 1^st place for 50+. The first races begin at 9am and the last at 12:15pm with awards to follow.

The 30^th Annual Triathlon in Miramar Beach will also take place on August 20^th. There will be over 700 competitors making it one of the largest athletic events in Northwest Florida. The race consists of a half mile swim in Destin's famous emerald waters, a 20 mile bike ride, and four mile run. On Friday the 19^th, the triathlon expo will be held where race packets can be picked up. The main event will begin at 6:30am on Saturday morning and a post-race party will be held beachside following the races. Awards will be given at an award ceremony scheduled for 10:30am. Proceeds from the annual triathlon will benefit Sacred Heart Hospital of the Emerald Coast.

Visitors are attracted around the year to the beaches of Northwest Florida. From the Destin Harbor to scenic 30A, there are endless options of fine dining, upscale shopping, and a variety of events for the whole family. Overnight accommodations can be made at luxury condos and homes along the Gulf of Mexico.