Club ‘pretty proud’ of hosting masters event

Wānaka Rowing Club members Tristan Hughs (left) and Shane Gibson compete in the South Island Masters Rowing Nationals at Glendhu Bay. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

The Wānaka Rowing Club hosted a South Island masters rowing regatta at Glendhu Bay on April 26 and 27, with 248 athletes from 25 clubs competing for honours.

Club secretary Tracey Pedersen said the annual event was a "wonderful opportunity to welcome rowers to Wānaka when the town is at its autumn best".

"We were so keen as a club to host a fun, affordable and competitive event. It’s the first time the club has hosted a regatta of this size, and it was a big logistical challenge — but we’re feeling pretty proud of the way it all came together".

It was "all hands on deck" for the club to host the two-day championship regatta and gala prizegiving event, she said.

The Wānaka men’s quad of (from left) Max Paulin, Shane Gibson, Sean Buckley and Tristan Hughes compete in the South Island Masters Rowing Nationals at Glendhu Bay.

Glendhu Bay was chosen as it provided plenty of space to accommodate athletes, supporters and a big fleet of boat trailers.

Friday’s challenging, choppy water meant some of the long course races were slightly abbreviated.

"The water conditions certainly tested the stamina and skill of crews, but with many competitors not lacking experience, the programme went well. Saturday saw absolute ‘bluebird’ conditions, flat water and a full schedule of excellent racing."

Wānaka Rowing Club members (from left) Kelly Buick, Jo Underwood, Helen Wightman and Liz Ritchie compete in the South Island Masters Rowing Championships at Glendhu Bay.

Trophies and medals were awarded across 61 events and classes.

The Mercer Trophy for the club with the most wins went to the Picton club.

Wānaka rowers won five gold medals and placed in another 14 races.