What a race it was. I had been telling lots that we were due a flat one. Although the charts showed it was possible of the wind turning up, unfortunately it did not and we were treated to a NE breeze. This did make it a bit cooler in the hot sun.

With 134 crafts registered to race it was always going to be the biggest field we have ever had in the 11 years of the event. Race start was postponed an hour with the hope of the wind coming a bit earlier. But the wind didn't arrive until prize giving. 

The race was tough. NZ's best paddlers having an honest battle for 3 hours plus with a few finding it too hard and pulling out. Tupuria King showed his class taking his 4th win in 5 years for the men with Nicky Kingi getting her 1st win in this event. Jordan and Richard on the W2 did their best to beat Tupu only to be caught and passed in the last 20min. Maylene and Louise were the sole relay team to race in the first of its kind for this race. They finished with smiles and lots of energy. They highly recommend the relay for next year. Former Olympic Sailor Tom Ashley won the ski division in his first attempt with former world ski champion Rachel Clarke won for her second year in a row.

Special mention to 3 individuals that competed in the race for their 11th consecutive year. Mark Roozendaal, Tonga White, Paora Mcgrath. Its a huge effort to just do the race once.

Thank you to the team of volunteers for running such an outstanding event. The sponsors that make it so memorable for the participants. Everyone gets a spot prize.

Huge thanks to

Strongarm - Power in the water

Kai Wa'a Canoes

Loaded Sports Drink

Kitesurf Nelson

Tuakana Customs

Oceanrider

Okerefalls Store

Ipaddle

Red Seal

East Coast Paddler

Sharkskin

Chocolates Are Us

The Rising Tide

Turkish Delight

Ocean Culture

If you want quality products. Make sure you use them.

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