We are but a tiny part of the Barrier Island ECOthon, simply renting expedition sea kayaks and associating gear from our outpost on the Isle of Palms.   We don’t set it up or organize this race (the awesome title sponsor Barrier Island Ecotours did), but we are so glad to be able to provide our services every year.

The Barrier Island ECOthon is an adventure race with kayaking, swimming, running and biking on the coastal islands of Isle of Palms, Dewees Island, Capers Island and Sullivans Island.  Starting with kayaking from the Isle of Palms Marina, we’re able to get everyone’s kayak set up and outfit athletes with PFD’s, paddles, spray skirts and other gear for the race from our dock.

In addition to allowing participants to immerse themselves in nature by kayaking to Dewees, running down the boneyard beach on Capers Island, swimming in the ocean between Dewees and Capers and cycling to Sullivans Island, this race benefits a great cause, the  Charleston Tibetan Society.

From their website:

Now in its 12th year, the ECOthon has raised over $20,000 for the mission of the CTS and for people affected by cancer through Livestrong.org.  Brett Carlson started the adventure race in 2004 as a spiritual and physical journey.  A 2007 Post & Courier article (David Quick) quoted Brett as saying, “The inspiration came from a love for exercising outdoors in nature and wanting to share this experience with others, as well as from graciously realizing the enormous potential in every moment. Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Michael Onorato, our Isle of Palms outpost manager was there for the race, helping people prepare for the event.  Feeling the sense of community at the race Michael said that he “met some amazing athletes, made some new friends and can’t thank Barrier Island Ecotours enough for such an amazing turnout!” He went on to say that the ECOthon is “truly one event not to miss if you enjoy a good race in one of the most surreal environments on the East coast.”