Joe O’Blenis Recaptures Vancouver Island Speed Record

Congratulations Joe O'Blenis

A few weeks ago I wrote about Canadian Joe O’Blenis and his attempt to re-capture his record of fastest man to paddle around Vancouver Island. With an incredible target of over 1,150 kms in under 17 days, Joe was going to have his work cut out for him to beat the current record holder Sean Morley and his incredible time of 17 days.

Well I’m excited to report that today Joe came across the finish line after a couple of set-backs, including being rolled by bad weather on the west coast of the island and having to wait to change over boats after losing a skeg assembly, in the incredible time of 16d 12h 14m to re-claim the title he’d lost a few years ago.

Joe enjoying the fine Canadian summer weather on Day 13

Joe enjoying the fine Canadian summer weather on Day 13

This is an incredible feat of endurance and mental strength and I know Joe’s friends and family are very relieved to have him finish safe and sound. So from the Fat Paddler, congrats on a fantastic effort mate, look forward to hearing all about it once you’ve rested up and recovered from the celebratory beers! Cheers – FP

The Fat Paddler by Sean Smith