Wonder Woman, Mario and the Hulk struggled to keep their paddle boards upright in the waters near Harbor Island in San Diego Sunday.

Ahead of the city’s famed Comic-Con this week, the bayfront turned into a spandex-filled arena during the first annual “SUPer Hero Show Down.” 

Heroes, villains and loudmouthed sidekicks all vied for glory during the event. Participants paddled their way through a one-mile course, eyeing prizes in the fastest racer, the best super costume and best sidekick categories. The fastest racer’s prize included a one-night stay at the Sheraton San Diego Resort. 

Proceeds from the splashy showdown went directly to Fisher House Southern California, Inc., providing a vital “home away from home” for military and veteran families facing tough battles at the Naval Medical Center San Diego.

San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2026 officially begins this week, running from July 23 through July 26 with the exclusive Preview Night on July 22.

Just a few of the most anticipated panels this year include Mel Brooks for “Spaceballs 2,” “Weapons” director Zach Cregger, “Pan’s Labyrinth” visionary and Academy Award-winner Guillermo Del Toro, the heads of Marvel Studios (where they might debut the trailer for “Avengers: Doomsday”), and the cast and crew of “King of the Hill.”

Making its first-ever appearance in the mega-hall, Apple TV+ is bringing sneak peeks of its Emmy-darling Widow’s Bay, fan-favorite sci-fi series like Silo and Dark Matter, and upcoming summer action films like Matchbox.

On Friday, July 24, the creative team behind “Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender” will show exclusive sneak peeks and insight into the upcoming animated theatrical film.