Seven wa’a paddlers made Catalina proud by bringing home accolades in the 2025 Outrigger Wild Buffalo Race last weekend. Unlike the September national championship using six-man boats, Sunday’s Wild Buffalo saw racers cross the channel from Avalon to Newport in one-man boats, usually relaying in teams of 2-3 paddlers.
Mary Bentdahl, Cressita Bowman, and Sadie Lake completed the grueling 32+ miles in just under six hours, good for 2nd place in the Open Female division.
Mary said, “This was my first small canoe race. I was so nervous – little boat, big body of water. I like to push myself to do difficult things, and this was definitely one of those. I’m so proud of myself and my teammates … and so thankful for the incredible support I’ve received – Coach Ernie, Uncle Paul, Chris Young. Also Charlie, Dana, and Zeke Canby keeping us safe from onboard the Penny Pie, and my husband, Chris Blehm.”
Sadie said, “I love being part of the paddling community! I feel so grateful to be able to walk 5 minutes down the street and jump in a canoe and paddle across the ocean with an amazing and supportive team. The Wild Buffalo Race was an unforgettable experience to challenge myself and push my physical and mental limits. I couldn’t have done it without my team Catalina gals or Charlie and our chase boat crew. Thank you!”
Ernie Diaz and Christopher Young came in fifth in the Senior Masters 50+ with a time of 5 hours 45 minutes, using only a two-man relay team, each man paddling over 16 miles.
Ernie said, “It’s great to have 4 canoes in the race, and it’s nice we’ve got a good crowd of newer paddlers ready to start the season.”
In Saturday’s Baby Buffalo 5-mile race, Avalon Gonzalez won the U16 division in 1:13 while Philip Voci captured the Senior Masters 50+ paddling next to his niece.
“It was pleasant and challenging at the same time,” Avalon said. “It was fun to compete with a good group of people and enjoy the amazing wildlife on the water.”
Recreation Outrigger season is getting ready to start. Anyone interested in paddling either recreationally or competitively is encouraged to contact Dave Hart at City Hall at 310-510-0220.
