Strong local presence for outrigger regatta

T O WN SV I L L E Ou t r i g g e r Canoe Club will host its annual outrigger canoe racing regatta at Pallarenda Beach today .

The regatta has attracted entries from across North Queensland to an exciting day of ocean- based canoe racing in the city’s ideal ocean surrounds.

Townsville Outrigger Canoe Club is one of the longest running clubs in Australia and has taken teams to compete successfully at events across Australia and the world.

Club president Derek Cole said the regatta gave Townsville the opportunity to showcase its strong paddlers and compete against the best from across the region.

“North Queensland’s ideal weather and ocean conditions means that paddlers have always represented strongly when compared to paddlers in other areas of Australia,” Cole said

“The advantageous climate means that teams can train all year round compared to the southern teams who may restrict their training to the warmer months.”

Races will include a range of marathon and sprint events in six person canoes ( OC6), two person ( OC2), and solo canoes ( OC1).

Men’s, women’s, and mixed teams will be competing with paddlers ranging in age from teenagers to those well into their 60s.

Townsville has had a strong season across the zone and Cole hopes the home ground will deliver good results.

“There are a number of paddlers who are aiming to compete at national title events in February and if successful then go on to race at international events” he said.

The regatta will be held-from 7.30am to 4pm.