11/03/2026
MEET THE PADDLER : Slavko Pekaric & his Epic 18X Sport 🛶🌍
Since 2018, Slavko’s kayaking journey has been a quest for the perfect machine. From starting in a plastic touring boat to mastering the Sea Ghost and Nelo 510, he finally found his match in the Epic 18X Sport.
« It has delivered 100%. »
For Slavko, based in Novi Sad, Serbia, the kayak is a passport. While 90% of his time is spent on the Danube, his 18X has crossed borders into Montenegro, Bosnia, Hungary, Greece, and Italy.
Why this boat works for him:
✅ Seaworthiness: High volume means « it does not get swallowed up even when broaching on a wave. »
✅ Efficiency: At 19kg, it’s a manageable weight that makes roof-loading easy after a long session.
✅ The « No-Stop » Hatch: The mini-hatch behind the seat is his lifeline for first aid and snacks, ensuring « a stop is not needed in order to grab something mid journey. »
The « Big Guy » Customizations (192cm / Size 46):
Slavko wasn’t afraid to take a Dremel to his deck to fit his build:
• Cockpit Surgery: He cut out the front day hatch to make room for his feet and access the footplate.
• Hybrid Leg Drive: A mix of a Nelo heel support and an MK1 footplate to « get much better leg drive with the whole foot approach. »
• Pro Steering: Swapped to a SmartTrack Tandem blade for a more « planted » feel in sea waves.
His Paddle Strategy ⚡
He alternates between the Small-Mid Wing (flexible shaft) to save his stamina on 20km races and the Mid Wing for raw power and response.
Next up for Slavko? The legendary 50th Vogalonga in Venice!
