The spectacular natural features of our region will again be showcased through a major sporting event when the Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club hosts its second regatta next month.
In a boon for local tourism, the club is staging a 40-kilometre “Mouth to Mouth’ Ocean Challenge between the Camden Haven River mouth at Pilots Beach and the Hastings River mouth on March 31.
And organisers are relying on local support to help make the event a success.
Club President Wayne Barnard said more than 200 outrigger paddlers from throughout NSW, the ACT and south-east Queensland were expected to compete in the race.
“We’re very excited about hosting this race, and the opportunity it presents to expose our visiting paddlers to the beautiful coastline between the Camden Haven and Port Macquarie,” he said.
“Our plan is to run a “downhill’ event, meaning the starting point will be determined by wind direction on the day.
“Regardless of which way the race is run, spectators from Port Macquarie to Dunbogan will have their first chance to watch outrigger racing off the region’s beaches, weather permitting.”
Barnard said the race was being conducted in a “changes’ format, meaning local boat owners were being offered a unique chance to experience the race “first-hand’.
“In this format, each competing crew will have a support boat carrying team members who will swap in and out of a moving canoe over the length of the course,” he said.
“We therefore need 20 or more boat owners who are interested in taking up a support boat role.
“All support boat drivers are paid by their crew to cover fuel costs, and it’s a fantastic way to get involved in the race.”
Barnard said anyone wanting to find out more about participating as a support boat operator should contact race director Mick Wilson on 0447 744 429.
Port Macquarie paddler and current Maroro Men’s Champion Wes Byrnes encouraged locals to get involved and support the event.
“Changes racing is the most dynamic and exciting format our sport has to offer, so we’re really looking forward to putting on a great event with the support of our local community,” he said.
