All Stories
Two and a half weeks out we have 35 confirmed craft starting (46 paddlers/rowers in total). From those entered over half are coming back for their second time… which from an organisers point of view is wonderfully gratifying.
For the second year running we continue to be presently surprised by the age of those taking up the 45km challenge across the countries and Australasia’s largest freshwater lake. To date we have entrants ranging from 26 years thru to 65 years of age, bring the average age of those signed up to 46 years old… not far off the under or over 50 age grouping we brought in this year.
What’s also good to see is the number of females entering is growing and once again total 25% of the field at this early stage.
So far we have a good mix of Surf Ski, Sea Kayaks (single & double) and Waka ama craft entered in the full course plus 3 relay team entries.
With the interest being shown from a good contingent of ocean rowers we anticipate the flotilla of boats leaving the start line in Tokaanu Bay will once again be quite a spectacle to see and be amongst.
World Ranked #1 women’s surf ski paddler Katie Pocock has confirmed she will be back to defend her title and be the first female to break into the 4 hour club (a barrier which eluded her by a mere 23 seconds last year). Also coming back is third placed and sub 4 hour inductee Tim Grammer, who with his 2008 experience will be a tough man to beat across the lake.
We have amassed over $20,000.00 worth of cash and product to give away (including on top of prize money; 4 x complete roof racks sets; 6 x kayak cradles sets; 1 x $1250, 3 x$500.00, 1 x $400, 20 x $100 & 4 x $75 gift vouchers; a sit on top kayak; some paddles; PFD’s; paddle gear; performance and casual clothing; sunglasses; free entries to other events; massages; heaps of nutrition… the list goes on), so there is a good chance entrants will take home a nice bounty.
There is still time to get your entry in before the late entry fee kicks in on Monday 23rd March. Otherwise entries will be accepted*at registration between 2:30-6:30pm at the Tokaanu Te Wharewaka Water Sports Complex on Friday 27th March. [*provided you notify us beforehand]
We’d love to see you at the event, and can assure you it is once again shaping up to be an event not to be missed.
If your keen to pick up your paddle/oars and knock the crossing off or better your time, visit www.transtaupo.co.nz to view the 2008 results, report, photos/ video coverage and competitor feedback; plus all the 2009 event info and entry to satisfy the urge.
… Neil & Kat
Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)