Local Outrigging Clubs to host National event on the Capricorn Coast – November 2020
Posted on February 26th, 2020
In a strong partnership, Rocky and Capricorn Coast Outrigger Canoe Club have bid for and won the rights to host the 2020 AOCRA National Marathon event for OC1-V1-OC2 canoes.
To be held on the weekend of 7-8 November, this event brings a rare opportunity for local, regional, interstate, national and international competitors to race against the stunning backdrop of the Capricorn Coast.
Race Director Kathy Barsby from Rocky Outrigger Canoe Club said that the Rockhampton region offered a climate and ocean conditions that rival the best coastal locations for competitive outrigger canoe racing across Australia.
“The best part of hosting such a prestigious event is to be able to showcase our region. Our club members have a passion and love for our water, and we are keen to promote where we live and paddle,” said Kathy.
“Paddlers that have previously competed in our downwind events have confirmed these races to be a highlight of their paddling calendar. It’s one for the bucket list! We extend a warm welcome to small craft paddlers, and their supporters, to join us for a weekend in a beautiful location,” said Kathy.
As a national event on the Australian Outrigging Canoe Racing Association (AOCRA) racing program, the event to be staged from Emu Park will attract a very competitive field of outrigging canoe enthusiasts.
Perfectly positioned at the end of a racing year, paddlers will be able to build their training program to culminate with their best race performances at this event.
Having represented our clubs at Molokai (Hawaii), AOCRA Nationals (Mooloolaba) and at events from Port Douglas (Marlin Coast Challenge) to Sydney (Sydney Harbour Challenge) this past year, Capricorn Coast and Rockhampton paddlers are no novices to national and international racing.
“While our combined clubs will put on a great show of hospitality and provide the perfect comradery that we are known for, we will also put up a strong contingent of experienced paddlers to contest the titles,” said Kathy.
Save the date now! And don’t miss out. The race program will include four events over two days of racing, with the signature event a 20km downwinder along the Capricorn coastline.
