Entries are welcome in the Bay-to-Gulf SUP Race, a first-time event set for May 1 sponsored by Lee County Parks & Recreation for Stand Up Paddleboarders, fitness enthusiasts and watersport lovers.

Races, demos and more will happen the first Sunday in May at Bunche Beach Preserve in south Fort Myers. More than 50 racers are expected and a dozen outfitters will be on hand for demonstrations and for the public to try this fast-growing watersport.

Races start at 9:30 a.m. with an awards ceremony following. Demos open to the public run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Bay-to-Gulf SUP Race will bring together Southwest Florida’s burgeoning SUP population and show others from around the Sunshine State and Southeast the pristine paddling on the Great Calusa Blueway in Lee County, according to race organizer Vicki Little of Lee County Parks & Recreation.

The race features a one-mile recreational race, a 3.5-mile competitive race, a family fun race and a sponsors’ relay race. Check the race entry form for divisions and age brackets. Entry is $20 in advance or $30 race day. Visit webtrac.leegov.com to register or call (239) 533-7440. No admission fee exists for spectators or demos.

The event will include a raffle with dozens of prizes and proceeds going toward the new SWFL SUP Club, which can be found on Facebook. Race questions can be directed to (239) 533-7444 or (239) 229-0649. People who do not have their own SUP boards can rent them. For a list of local outfitters, visit www.calusablueway.com/articles/outfitters or call (239) 533-7444.

Attendees also can explore Bunche Beach Preserve, which features more than 700 acres of habitat and wildlife. The preserve is located at 18201 John Morris Road, Fort Myers. Bunche Beach provides access to the Great Calusa Blueway, a 190-mile marked paddling route that meanders behind the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. Details and maps are available at www.calusablueway.com.