Co-ordinator, Hugh McLeod, admitted he was hoping to at least match last year’s figure, when there were nearly 40 participants. This was the first time the indoor championships had been held.

“I was hoping for more than 19,’’ McLeod said.

“It is a little disappointing.’’

However, McLeod said numbers are down for the event across Australia, with the Manning mirroring the national trend.

“I’ve got a few ideas why this has happened, but I don’t want to make them public just yet,’’ he said.

McLeod said the majority of entries are from the Manning area, with a sprinkling from Port Macquarie and Newcastle.

The championships were scheduled to start last weekend and will conclude on Sunday. There are hosting venues in most Australian States.

Last year the event ran for most of November but has been curtailed this time.

“It’ll be over a lot earlier this year, so hopefully that should mean we get the results quicker,’’ McLeod pointed out.

The champions in the various divisions will be determined when the results from each venue have been detailed.

Events will be underway from 8am on Saturday in Taree with the 2000 metre races. The championships are open for men and women.

“We expect to be finished by noon,’’ McLeod said.

McLeod said he can’t accept late entries.

"I’d love to be able to, but Rowing Australia has been very strict on the deadline,’’ McLeod said.

Meanwhile, the Manning River Rowing Club will host the annual Taree Summer Regatta on January 12 and 13 next year.

This will attract clubs from throughout NSW, with a strong contingent again expected from city clubs.

Taree will also be the venue for the Central District Rowing Association Championships on Saturday March 10.

McLeod said the Manning crews are in full training for what will be another busy year.