TEN dragon boats will hit the Manning River on Saturday and Sunday as Manning River Dragon Boat Club hosts a regatta that will bring more than 300 competitors from across the State.
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Racing will begin at 1pm tomorrow and run over two days, with racing on Sunday to begin at 7.30am. Teams will travel from as far north as Coffs Harbour, south to Newcastle and inland from Dubbo to compete on the Manning River, which is considered one of the best dragon boating venues on the coast according to Manning River Dragon Boat Club spokesperson, Trish Paff.
Dragon boats will line the riverbank near Taree Rowing Club and Trish says spectators will be able to view the entire course from the riverbank and really be part of the excitement of dragon boat racing.
“Our regatta is part of the Manning in Motion festival and really showcases what a wonderful venue we have in Taree for water sports.”
Racing is set to start at 1pm on Saturday with a 2km turn race. Ten teams are entered with three heats to be conducted.
“This is a great race to watch as racing is usually very close,” Trish said.
“Boats are expected to complete the race in about 15 minutes.”
Sunday racing will begin at 7.30am with heats in four categories - sport women, sport men, men 10s and junior 10s.
“There are two junior teams entered - which reflects the strength of junior paddling in our area,” Trish said.
“Races will be conducted over 200 metres with the finals set for the afternoon.”
The Manning River Dragon Boat Club has been together for about five years and has had great success at State, national and international levels.
The club is particularly keen to attract more men to the sport to enable it to be competitive in mixed events, and more juniors to join those who have had success at State and national levels.
For further information about Manning River Dragon Boat Club visit www.mrdbc.com.au
