The Trent 100

I write this article with a mix of emotions, one likely shared by the whole SUP community, on learning that this is the last year of the iconic Trent 100.

Words: Sam Rutt. Photos: Alex Thornhill – XT-SUP & Helen Dennison – Saltwalk Events 

I write this article with a mix of emotions, one likely shared by the whole SUP community, on learning that this is the last year of the iconic Trent 100. What started with humble beginnings and an event that attracted just 31 paddlers has grown to be a bucket list event for any SUP enthusiast wanting to test their skills, ability, and teamwork.  

Each year, the event has grown in participant numbers and offers excellent live music, fantastic food, top-class entertainment, and arguably the best showers you will ever find on a campsite! Paddle UK was incredibly proud to sponsor this event not just this year but in previous years as well. 
The Trent 100 is famously not a race (it’s not, honestly – we all know it’s not!). But all joking aside, what was the Trent 100 if not a race? And why will we all miss it from the SUP calendar? Here’s what the team had to say….

“The Trent100 is not just another race; it’s a team challenge over two days, a test of endurance, camaraderie, and the human spirit. Unlike traditional races where individuals compete against the clock, the Trent100 invites teams to embark on a collective journey, each member contributing their unique strengths and quirks to the paddling party.

“In a race, you’re alone in your preparation, at the start line and pushing through to the finish. The emotions you experience are yours and yours alone. But in the Trent100, it’s a different story. Each paddle stroke is a collaborative effort, a synchronised movement of determination and teamwork.

“Throughout the events, we’ve witnessed the bonds between teams grow stronger, forged in the fire of shared experiences and shared laughter. From the nervous anticipation of the starting line to the jubilant celebrations at the finish, the Trent100 is a journey like no other.”

Anyone fortunate enough to attend this event will have some amazing memories, stories to tell, not to mention lifelong friendships.  I think collectively; we have all been teased by the cooling towers; anyone who knows…knows!  They aren’t as close as you think and move as if by magic from in front of you to behind you, to beside you, taunting you as you paddle the 57km of the first day, trying desperately to get to base camp for the finisher’s hug. 

To the Trent 100 team and to all of you who have been involved over the years and have contributed to making this such an iconic event, I am sure I speak for the whole SUP community and everyone who has been lucky enough to start this epic challenge when I say thank you. Thank you for everything you have done to provide us with an event (it’s not a race) that will be forever a legacy of SUP Adventure and teamwork! 

So, what is next for the team?  After I caught up with them, this is what they had to say….
“Who knows, but I have sent a few emails today! I am sure this will not be the end of Saltwalk Events; always bigger and better! Watch this space.”