Paddlers out to hit Doctor paydirt
THEY call it The Doctor; arguably the truest test of one’s ability on ocean skis.
And a team of Gold Coast hopefuls have begun plotting how to emerge victorious and claim their share in a landmark prize money jackpot.
Travelling from the Glitter Strip to Perth, 16 ocean paddling competitors will take on the Shaw and Partners WA Race Week from November 19-26, with a windfall cash grab of $265,000 up for grabs.
The prize pool is historic in itself – the richest ever offered in water paddling.
While a host of events will take place throughout the week – the 24km Fenn West Coast Downwinder from Fremantle to Sorrento Beach among them – there is none quite like The Doctor.
Both men and women, the vast majority on ocean skis, will contest the iconic 27km downwind race from the calm waters of Rottnest Island and Thomson Bay.
The field faces a mad dash to the first turn east and the $5000 Hot Spot. From there they will contend with a tactical crossing to the mainland, negotiating the fast-moving ocean chop whipped up by the southwest wind – and the event’s namesake – the Fremantle sea breeze.
For more than 90 minutes, paddlers will hook into the steep surfable chop, before turning at the Centaur Marker for the final 6km up the Perth coast to the Doctor finish arch on the pristine sands of Sorrento.
Among the region’s hopefuls include former champions Cory Hill and Danielle McKenzie, both hailing from Northcliffe surf club. The pair currently hold the race records, with further monetary incentives awarded to those who manage to knock their past pursuits off the podium.