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The Trophies were carved by Matahi Whakataka Brightwell who has been instrumental in the re-birth and growth of the sport of Waka Ama in Aotearoa.
The first is a trophy that recognises a clubs paddling excellence and achievement throughout the week. Points were accumulated throughout the week from all finals and the club with the most points at the end of the week is awarded this honor. This years winners Horouta Waka Hoe have achieved outstanding results, They made 48 of a possible 66 finals and recorded and enormous medal tally. They have set the bar extremely high and we congratulate them for they outstanding achievement.
The second trophy was carved and named in honor of Ace Cuthers who we sadly lost this year. It is the "Ace Cuthers Memorial Club Spirit Hoe". It was chosen by the event organisors and administration. The Hoe is awarded to the club that epitomizes the values of Waka Ama; Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga, Hauora , Tu Tangata.
This year the club that stood out above others and showed all the values that we hold dearly as a sport was: Turangawaewae Waka sports. Their management, paddlers and supporters impressed organisors all week long with their wonderful attitude and infectious club spirit. Congratulations!
Well done to both Horouta and Turangawaewae as inaugural recipients of these very special trophies.
Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)