Kia ora everyone,
Thanks for being part of the 12th anniversary of the Bhutty James Moore-morial race. James Passed away on 26th July 2008 paddling this coastline in rough conditions. His family is very proud to see all of you out on the water doing what he loved.
Some stats:
120 participants registered online
114 completed the course
6 doubles
Fastest male Ski average 13.83km
Fastest male Canoe average 12.46km
Fastest female Ski average 12.65km
Fastest female Canoe average 10.93km
3 internationals (USA, Japan, Australia)
The course was Mount 2 Maketu. It was a chilly morning with the wind to start the race before the 30 degree heat kicked in. As everyone rounded the mount they slotted into their positions before choosing different lines as they got past Rabbit Island.
It was a hazy morning which made it hard to actually see maketu in the distance. This may have frightened the first timers. After a flat 5km the side wind started to kick in to give everyone a cool breeze to help cool them down. With Papamoa domain getting closer the wind direction was more favourable and everyones average speed started to get higher.
From what I have heard the eventual overall winners did lead from start to finish. Tupu King, Nicky Kingi and Rachel Clarke went back to back with first time Ben Keys from Christchurch winning in his first time racing over quite a stacked field with multiple past champions racing.
Everyone completed the course and the safety crew enjoyed watching you work so hard. Huge thanks to the safety team. Maketu Coast Guard and Surfclub and all the volunteers that take their time to watch over you on the boat.
My team of volunteers were amazing. The work behind the scenes that make the event run seemlessly.
Thank you to all the sponsors that help make this event what it is. Please make sure you tag them in your posts and share photos of their product.
Loaded sports drink
Manuka Performance
Vaikobi
Ipaddle & Print
Tuakana Customs
Sharkskin water sports protection
Mana Paddle apparel
The Rising Tide
Okere Falls Store
Kayak HQ
Kai Wa'a
Ocean Culture
Ocean Rider
Eastcoast Paddler
Turkish delight
Canoe Racing NZ
Waka Ama NZ
There race in the Darcy Price series is in Nelson next weekend. Its great to see more ocean events in the country now.
