Paddlers navigate the shore break to the “Starting Line” along side the Starting boat - anchored about 400 yards off the surf line. The paddlers will form a line along side the boat, ready for a “count of 3” start given from the boat.

The course follows the kelp line North to Moonlight Beach - Encinitas where paddlers will turn around the buoy located off the beach and head back toward the “Starting Line”. Paddlers will have to decide to either stay inside the kelp bed on calmer water or outside with the shortest distance. The choice of the course might be decisive when seconds separate paddlers.