Spokeswoman Georgina Salter said Oamaru rowers trained on a circular course, rather than in a straight line, because of the size of the harbour. That was being harnessed for the inaugural LJ Hooker Pursuit Rowing Course, which would start at 9am today.
Four crews would be out on the harbour at once, chasing each other around the course, Mrs Salter said.
Novice crews would be taking part in their own competition, then the masters and open rowers would compete against each other.
The event would raise funds for the restoration of the historic Sumpter Wharf. Mrs Salter hoped it would be open as a viewing area for spectators in years to come.
She was also keen for local people to see a rowing regatta. Most were held at Lake Ruataniwha, a long drive from Oamaru.
''The town misses out on a wonderful community sport.''
Other possibilities for the future included challenges from the Oamaru crews to those from other rowing clubs.
The action would start with quads, followed by fours, and was expected to finish about 11am.
