The Shaw and Partners Doctor is regarded by many as the ultimate ocean paddling race – a crossing from the famous Rottnest Island to the stunning white sands of Sorrento Beach. The Doctor captures the imagination of ocean paddlers like no other event. Starting in the crystal-blue waters of Rottnest, paddlers are soon launched into fast-moving ocean chop, whipped up by the race’s namesake – the strong south-west wind that prevails almost every summer afternoon.

For the next ninety minutes or more, paddlers focus on linking the steep, surfable runs. As the Centaur Marker appears ahead, they enter the final third of the race. Up to this point it can feel as though you are the only person on the water, but after rounding the marker, paddlers suddenly emerge all around you.

With the beach in sight and the final run caught, competitors leave their craft and make the short dash up the sand to the finish line.