260km kayak race to be held in April

New dates have been announced for the Wild Descent 260km multi-day kayak race, which runs the length of the Clutha River. The event was postponed earlier this month because of high river levels.

It would now be held from April 25 to 28, the company behind the event, 100% Pure Racing, announced this week. Event co-director Warren Bates said it was decided April would be the best month to host the rescheduled event in order to avoid clashing with other major sporting events in the region.

''Everyone is so very keen to race in this event that we don't foresee too many changes to the line-up and in fact it allows us to continue to hold entries open for another couple of months.''

The Wild Descent involves teams of two kayaking down the Clutha River from Albert Town to Kaka Point over four stages, including some challenging whitewater sections. Competitors must use AR Duo double kayaks provided by the organisers.

''Competitors ... just need to turn up with their own camping gear and food and the rest is taken care of by our team,'' Mr Bates said.

The event has attracted some big names from adventure sports, including nine-time Coast to Coast winner Steve Gurney, current adventure racing world champions Nathan Fa'avae and Sophie Hart and Coast to Coast record-holder Keith Murray.

New entries will be accepted until the end of March.