Marathon Series Race 8, Cockle Creek

September 18, 2023

Hunter Valley Paddlesports Club put on a very memorable and exciting home race on 2 September. They were able to show the paddlers who travelled long distances what a small club like Hunter Valley can do.

With 11 members paddling and a very enthusiastic group of volunteers setting the course and preparing the grounds the previous day, a smooth event was ensured.

One person especially needs a big thanks, Sally Verheul the race coordinator. Without Sal this day would not have been the success it was.

So many other people did outstanding jobs like Mark and Darren from Newy with the Time Keeping.

Ian Wrenford coming up from Sydney especially to take these outstanding photos.

Cobber and the Sheep Station volunteers worked tirelessly all day, and finally the 3 boats with all the SES volunteers keeping us safe on the water.

Now to the important part, the racing:

The weather was how we like it, not too warm with a little breeze , almost top of the tide with Cockle Creek being a fairly protected waterway – it made racing very exciting.

Some of the outstanding results from HVPC members were: Sue Smith and Greg Hillier winning Division 8, Larry Adams 2nd Div 10, Tim Johnstone 1st Div7 (ranking), Tim Manusu 2nd Div 9, Bernie Craggs 4th Div5.

Russell and Marni 5th Div10, Sue Johnson and Malcolm Lewis 4th Div11.

One other member who was outstanding winning Div 11 was Marnie Fitzpatrick who after losing her father during the week put on a brave face and paddled like the true champion that she is.