← WA360 Home ← 2025 WA360 Teams
Crew: Nick Huffman
Hometown: Portland, OR
Vessel: Huki S1-X Kayak
Class: The Muscle Group
Get to know Team 500 Paddles
First thing first. Why race in WA360?
I’ve been looking for a long-distance race to challenge myself, and when I saw the announcement of the 2025 WA360, I was immediately interested. By most accounts, doing this race in the muscle class is bonkers. Luckily, that’s just my kind of challenge.
What’s your connection to these waters?
I had never been to the PNW prior to moving to Portland in 2019, so my first experience in the Puget Sound was the 2021 Seventy48. I’ve been back a few times since, but I haven’t had a chance to see most of the WA360 course. I’m thrilled for the opportunity to travel new waters and deepen my connection with the Puget Sound.
Superpowers. Each crew member gets one. What are they and why?
My superpower is that I get along with myself (most of the time). When there’s drama on the water and you’re stressed and tired, it’s good to be on your own side.
Defend your vessel choice for WA360. What makes it so cool and worthy?
Light, hydrodynamic, and efficient. What she lacks in comfort, she makes up for in speed. At 21 feet long and only 17 inches wide, I’m looking to push the limits of what is possible for an ultralight distance surfski trek.
What are your adventure qualifications for WA360? What makes you (y’all) cool and capable?
I like to paddle long distances solo. This includes the entire Willamette River (187 mi), the entire Tualatin River (75.5), and completing the Seventy48 both times I entered.
What is going to break?
Who knows, but I’ll be damned if it’s me!!!
