Whippet Crowned UK Dog Surfing Champion at Paddleboard Festival
Date Published: 3 August 2025
A brindle-coated whippet named Margo has made waves in the canine sports world, claiming the title of UK Dog Surfing Champion of the Year at this year’s paddleboard competition in Dorset.
The annual event, hosted by Shaka Surf, took place at Branksome Dene Chine Beach in Poole and attracted more than 30 dogs and their human companions. What started as a fun seaside get-together has grown into a full-scale surf spectacle dubbed the “Boardmasters for dogs.”
Making a Splash
Margo and her owner, Carl Barnes, competed in the highlight race of the event — the “Dog Masters” — where they soared through to the finals and clinched first place with a strong lead during the 50m sprint on their paddleboard.
Barnes, who has shoulder-length blonde hair and wore Shaka Surf gear during the event, described the win as “surreal.” The duo have since become local celebrities on social media.
“I entered for fun, but there’s a little bit of competitiveness in me,” Carl admitted. “When I realised we had a real shot at it, I dug deep and brought the win home. Loved it — and next year we’ll be training even harder to defend our title.”
More Than Just a Race
The event wasn’t just about surfing glory. Organisers from Shaka Surf also hosted multiple Guinness World Record attempts. Among the achievements:
- Most dogs surfing a single wave on one board
- Fastest dog and human paddleboard 50m sprint – 32 seconds
- Fastest solo 50m paddleboard sprint
For Carl and Margo, it was more than a contest — it was a moment to celebrate their unique bond.
“I’ve developed a relationship with Margo where trust and love are everything,” Carl said. “If I ever paddle out without her, she cries at the gate until I come back and let her join me. We head off in peace together.”
Final Thoughts
Dog sports are fast becoming more than novelty — they’re showcases of companionship, athleticism, and community spirit. Events like these highlight the joy and connection between dogs and their humans, reminding us that adventure is best shared on four legs and a board.
