Written By Thato

Local boy, Chris Bertish, has officially set the Guinness World Record for the longest Standing Up Paddle (SUP) ever recorded. On the 17th of December 2013 the Cape Town native set out to crack the record in an attempt to create social awareness for the LunchBox Fund organisation.

The proud record holder started his 121km journey at 7am just off Kommetjie and completed his first 30km leg in just less than 3 hours. The second leg took him 4 hours 8 minutes with 42kms completed. The final leg was completed in 3 hours and covered 49kms. The successful world record journey ended in Sandanha at 7pm.

Bertish is immensely happy with the journey and says the cross ocean challange was a success only because of good preparation, determination and excellent teamwork.

"The research, planning, preparation, logistics and teamwork to be able make this day happen, when you are dealing with the extreme, constantly changing and challenging elements, was the most difficult of obstacles to overcome... but I believed with every fibre of my being that I could do it and if you dream it, can see it and believe it, then you can achieve anything!”

Bertish visted by a curious whale during the first 15 minutes of the journey. 

Bertish on the open ocean

Chris Bertish heart rate and speed during the journey

To help Bertish successfully complete the grueling 121km paddle, a backup boat followed his course throughout the journey. The boat included food and emergency items plus a team comprised of an official timer, videographer and photographer.

As well as being a SUP master and big wave surfer, Bertish is also a motivational speaker and regularly conducts workshops and motivational talks at various institutions. Also an action camera fan, he enjoys using his GoPro camera to capture all of his wave splashing adventures.