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22nd October, Ohau Canals, Twizel
What a wonderful event this was, held in glorious spring
sunshine amongst the snow - capped mountians of the McKenzie,
and on it`s tranquil glacier- blue waters.
Our very own Finn O`Conner, now resident in Dunedin, was the
clear winner in a record time for the course; two hours and
thirteen minutes. Well done Finn!
My own effort was somewhat less impressive, finishing a mere 46
minutes after Finn, but I was delighted just to finish the event
without a swim from my K1. Gosh it`s a struggle learning to
paddle that thing, but I shall overcome.
The race starts at the canal outlet from Lake Pukaki, and down
to the first portage at Ohau A power station. One low bridhe
along the way calls for a modified, head down paddle technique,
nearly a disaster for me.
The second leg takes us to across Lake Ruataniwha, under state
highway 8 and down to the second protage at Ohau B power
station. All three portages in this race are a little bit more
than just a " hop, skip and a jump", with some steep
slopes, uneven ground as well as tarmac, so the ability to run
with your boat ond paddle is qutie important. However this adds
to the challenge, and is certianly a good opportunity to stretch
the legs.
One more portage at Ohau C, and then just a few hundred yards to
the finish at the Lake Benmore campsite - 31 Kms in all,
and an awesome day.
Simon Abbott
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