When members of Hobie’s elite stand up paddleboard racing team tried out the Mirage Eclipse, they chose an exceptional location: enchanting Bald Head Island, North Carolina.
“It’s one of my favorite places. It’s gorgeous here, laid back, super relaxing,” said North Carolina resident April Zilg as she gestured at the miles of pristine beaches.
Accessible only by ferry or private boat, Bald Head Island hosts a resort and residential community. There are no cars, just electric carts. It is peaceful and natural.
Bald Head is the southernmost barrier island in North Carolina. Its eastern tip comprises Cape Fear. Despite the ominous name of the cape, quiet waters lap the island’s northern shores.
As the team eyed the new watercraft, the first stand up users pedal, it’s fair to say some were skeptical. That included the Ms. Zilg, a ferocious competitor also known for her zest and enthusiasm. “At first I remember thinking ‘Gee, a stair-stepper on water,’” April recalled.
Then they hopped on, and the smiles spread. “I felt like a kid on a new bike again. My hands on the handlebars, wind in my hair. The only thing that was missing were the tassels on the handlebars… and a wipeout. Unlike a joy-filled ride on a new bike, I didn’t fall, not even close,” April said.
Our stand up paddleboarders threaded with ease the winding creek channels of the Bald Head Creek and Salt Marsh preserve. They pedaled past the Old Baldy Lighthouse, built in 1817 and the oldest still standing in the state. Cruised by the Bald Island Chapel and idled past the picturesque old boathouse. And then they did what comes naturally. They raced!
“That’s when I felt the workout. Although it’s super easy, if you really get moving you can feel the burn in your glutes and calves. I had a blast on the Eclipse, and I was thrilled to find that it was fast, easy, and fun!” April said.
