Bongil Bongil Bash – 1st Race of the Northern River Marathon Series.
12 Currumbin Creek Canoe Club paddlers made the 4 hour trip south staying overnight at the beachside town of Sawtell. All Canoe clubs from as far north as the Sunshine Coast Canoe Club met for a pre race dinner the night before at the Sawtell RSL. Some chose to camp at the Sawtell Caravan Park (it was a chilly night) while others chose the comfort of a hotel.
Conditions were PEFECT with deep, smooth water and beautiful scenery. Paddlers had the choice of 9kms or 18km s with a 6km distance for beginners. All Currumbin paddlers took the 18km (19.17km to be exact) option and most won their category.
Rick Finch was the first Currumbin paddler home in the open ocean ski battling it out with Jordan Clark who took out the under 18 k1 class. Darryl Stenlake was the next Currumbin paddler to cross the line ahead of Amanda Rankin and Mark Rickard in the k1 18km. Darryl, Amanda and Mark are close rivals and the bets are always on as to who will take out the next race. Grant Epple finished close behind Mark.
Di and Dave teamed up in the TK2 to take a win in the mixed 18km class. Bryson Cox is the most improved paddler by impressing everyone with his determination to master the TK1 and completing the 18kms.
Sandgate Canoe Club will host the 2nd race of the series. The Wetlands Wander race will run on the 24th of June, Northern Side of Brisbane at Shorncliffe. Hope to see you all there!!!!
