The Joe Way Paddle for Life has returned to Newquay Harbour after a five-year break, raising over £5,000 for local charities, with more donations still coming in.
The event, first launched in memory of four-year-old Joe Way, attracted hundreds of participants and supporters.
Joe, from Newquay, was born with a rare genetic condition and had survived several life-threatening illnesses before passing away in 2008. Since then, his parents, Matt and Claire Way, have raised more than £185,000 for over 20 causes through the annual paddle and other fundraising efforts. “After five years of not running the event, the team and family felt that it was the right time to relaunch the event, to celebrate what would have been Joe’s 21st birthday last September,” said Matt Way.
This year’s event opened with a dramatic skydive by six members of the Cornish Parachute Club, followed by flybys from a private pilot and the Cornwall Air Ambulance helicopter. On land, the harbour was transformed into a festival atmosphere with charity stalls, live music, and food and drink vendors. The evening’s entertainment featured performances by Ash Harding, Oll An Gwella, Newquay Rowing Club Male Voice Choir, and DJs from Amplify Southwest, including Joe’s sister, Rosie Way.
The event's highlight, the paddle races, included relays, RNLI races, and junior paddles, with participants of all ages taking part. The Joe Way Memorial Cup, established in 2008, was awarded to the winning RNLI team, “Manns,” and presented by Joe’s father. Commentary was provided by Anton Roberts, with live coverage from Radio Newquay.
Organised in partnership with Newquay Towan Blystra Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Cornwall, the event also included a popular raffle featuring prizes such as a guitar signed by James Morrison and artwork by Doug Hinge. Matt Way added: “So many people have enjoyed this event as kids and now have returned as adults, some with their own children; it is so uplifting for us as a family that we can celebrate Joe’s short but impactful life.”
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