Tena koutou to all who attended, supported and competed in Race 1 of the Mauao Ocean Series held at Waikorire/Pilot Bay on 12^th August.

It was an amazing day of racing in sometimes very strong winds and demonstrated how waka ama canoes and the skill and teamwork of those who compete in them is ever improving.

While there were late changes to the schedule due to weather it was an excellent days racing offshore around Mauao, Motuotau and along the coast to Omanu.

Race 1 saw challenging conditions for single and novice crews who all showed physical and mental toughness to negotiate wind chop, downwind swell and moderate headwinds on the return leg from Motuotau. Kapai koutou katoa.

Race 2+3 combined due to forecast high winds was an epic challenge for all levels. Solid down wind racing to the turn mark at Omanu was close in the front group and a relentless upwind return leg with heavy wind chop at Mauao was a mindset exercise to keep working together to the finish at Pilot Bay.

Well done again to all involved and a special thanks to our local on-water team plus Te Aurere for support for all Crews out on the Moana. We hope to see you for Event 2 in September.

Please see results attached – Mauriora.

Hoe Aroha Whanau O Mauao.