The turn out of 318 paddlers on a still calm sea was exciting both on and off water. Thanks to all the clubs for your co-operation and attendance – our safety boat personnel commented on how well the starts to each of the four races went and the change to a Le Mans finish assisted the time checkers immensely. The Juniors races were as predicted fast and furious with top times being recorded by Cook Islands Te Manga J19 Men with a time of 25.47. The 5km course provides opportunity for new and old to check out their ability and we want to give a belated welcome to Taranaki who entered both distances – we hope you got something good from the experience. The Women/Mixed teams race always provides challenges, being the biggest contingent – 18 waka on the water we had to be sure our safety boat ratio was correct.

Congratulations to the winners in all divisions and special note to Waitakere for a conclusive overall win in Race 3. The final race had a delayed start as the men keen to do the damage, set off to an imaginary ‘start line’ - Akarana Club triumphed this time with Taniwha Grizzlies following close behind.

Luckily no incidents reported by Willie Matthews who led the safety boat team. Once again to him and Royal Akarana Yacht Club members we cannot hold a successful and safe event with out you.

We had a number of teams withdraw but that did not impact too much on the regatta and as first time Race Director I need to take my hat off to the non-club members who assisted us in the time keeping – Ainslie and Bernie you helped fill a major gap for us and also to Maki for helping out at the beach end with the waka trailers. As Race Director I had great support from the AROCA Administrator, Michelle McLean who covered all the back office details without complaint and her effeciency made the event run smoothly.

Finally, to our members in Ocean Blue - I hope you enjoyed yourselves and I believe you hosted our region in the fashion expected by all paddlers and got to race as well – double bonus.

We wish Waitakere well in the next two races coming up. See you all on the water.

Nga mihi

Sharon Aroha Hawke

Race Director

Ocean Blue Sports Club.