First Reef Race 2025 Unites Athletes in Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — The first edition of the Reef Race took place in Puerto Morelos, featuring competitions across 15, 10, and 5-kilometer distances in front of the Ventana al Mar. A total of 40 participants from Quintana Roo, Yucatán, and Querétaro competed in the event.

Event Launch and Categories

Puerto Morelos Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz officially signaled the start of the races, which included categories such as Recreational Kayak, Double Kayak, Maya Canoe, Outrigger Canoe, Paddle All Around/Touring, and Paddle Race 14’. Competitors ranged from beginners to masters in both men’s and women’s divisions.

The competition was organized by the Quintana Roo Canoeing Association, led by President Alfredo Benítez, with support from the Secretary of Sustainable Tourism, Raúl Guadarrama. Local clubs such as Conexión Nativa, Sup Marinos, Outrigger Canoe Club Cancún, and Puerto Aventuras Dragon Boat Club participated, alongside representatives from the Yucatán Canoeing Association and a competitor from Querétaro.

Race Results

In the 15-kilometer OC6 category, the winning canoe was Nehe, followed by Rell, both from Outrigger Canoe Club Cancún. Itzel Godínez claimed victory in the OC1 division.

For the 15K Sea Kayak men’s division, Ulises Padilla took first place, followed by Christopher Aranda and Víctor Hugo Agoitia. In the women’s division, Daniela Buzo secured the top spot, with Gretel Segura and Vanessa López finishing second and third, respectively.

In the OC1 10K race, Alfonso Serrano emerged as the winner, followed by Jorge Gutiérrez and Axel Lugo. Iris Hernández triumphed in the Sup Race 10K women’s category, with Samantha Macedo and Cris Cazán placing second and third.

The event showcased the growing interest in water sports in the region while promoting sustainable tourism and local athletic talent.