Boat owners in the Hastings and Camden Haven are being invited to take up “front row seats’ at the region’s newest national sporting event.
The Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club is seeking support from local boaties interested in taking on a support boat role at next month’s “Mouth to Mouth’ outrigger challenge.
Race director Mick Wilson said at least 20 support boats and jet skis would be needed for the 40-kilometre ocean race, being held between Pilots Beach at Dunbogan and Port Macquarie’s Lady Nelson Wharf on March 31.
“The event is being run in a “changes’ format, which means each crew has six paddlers in the canoe and three or four team mates on a support boat, which follows the racing crew and enables the team to make regular changes throughout the race,” Wilson said.
“The drivers are therefore essential for the race, and at this stage it looks as though we could have at least 20 teams from throughout New South Wales, the ACT and Queensland contesting the race.
“Any event of this size needs community support in order to succeed and, in our case, there’s an opportunity for local boaties and jet ski owners who may be looking for a unique experience on the water to help out in a very practical way.
“Participating boats need to be sea-worthy, registered, insured and capable of carrying at least five people, as well as being equipped with the relevant safety gear and marine radio.”
Port Macquarie boat owner Scott Baker, who provided a support boat for the club’s first regatta in 2009, said he was looking forward to being involved again.
“It’s a unique event and there’s no better way to experience the race from a spectator’s point of view than to be on the water with the canoes,” he said.
“No experience is needed – the paddlers provide all the information you need – and the crews all pay their driver to cover fuel costs.
“I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys their sport or just wants a great day on the water.”
Anyone interested in taking part or finding out more about the event is encouraged to phone Mick Wilson on 0447 744429.
