Great conditions in Penrith for Marathon 6

Race 6 of the PaddleNSW Marathon Series was held on the Nepean River at Penrith on Sunday 19th June. Due to current constructions happening at Tench Reserve, the race location for the last few years, this race was moved 3kms downstream to the original location of the race in previous years -the Nepean Rowers.

The day started under beautiful winter sunshine with the forecast of a light southerly breeze increasing during the morning to help bring the paddlers home. 

133 boats took to the water which included the usual crafts as well as SUP’s, Outriggers and a larger crew of canoe paddlers than we’ve seen in recent times.  The Penrith race was also the first race of the Junior Series which included 20 boats.  

The race format for all divisions was again on the unique one lap course, with the 15 and 20km divisions heading up through the narrows and into the Nepean Gorge.  Due to water release operations at Warragamba Dam recently, water levels were significantly up on usual heights, which meant for a steady current to bring paddlers home.  This higher water level also meant a faster flow through the narrows with paddlers having to negotiate the currents through this narrower section of the river.  However, with the wind also picking up during the morning, the combination made for some fast speeds on the return leg. 

These great conditions provided for some excellent speeds throughout the divisions.  A highlight of the race was the rare chance to watch the K4 crew flying along the river and finishing in a time of just over 1hr 18mins. 

Many paddlers and spectators headed up to the Nepean Rowers Club for lunch following the race to socialise and celebrate their success with their club mates.  All in all, it was a lovely day to be out on the water.  A special thanks to all the volunteers which included the SES who were able to provide a safety boat for the duration of the race.

Results for this round are available from Webscorer: 2022 Marathon Series – Race 6 – Penrith | Race results | Webscorer

Thank you to Ian Wrenford for the fabulous array of photographs also available on PNSW Flickr: 2022-06 Marathon #6 Penrith (PVC) | Flickr

Next in the Marathon series is the picturesque Woronora River for Race 7 on the 16th July 2022.

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