The Chinderah Chase, run and won

THE final race of the Pacific Coast Marathon Paddle Series was held on the Tweed River at Chinderah on Sunday, October 6.

Run by the Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club, the race was held under blue skies with a northerly wind blowing across the main river, with some protection offered to competitors paddling in the channel between the two small islands.

Fifty-seven competitors participated in 50 craft, with seven doubles competing, supported by plenty of spectators on the riverbank and two safety vessels out on the river. All age groups were represented, from four Under 12 junior paddlers to five 70-plus veterans.

Under 14 K1 paddler Mark Crisan was first overall in the five-kilometre event in 34:32. Charlie Chan was the first female across the line in a single ocean ski in 36:24.

In the 10-kilometre race double ski pairing Justin Appi and Steve Major were first across the line in 55:21. Barry Woods was the first male single to finish in 58:06 on a single ocean ski, and Under 14 K1 paddler Ciara Quigley was the first female single in 1:02:43.

Archie Skinner was first over the line in the 15-kilometre event in 1:15:09, a mere 1.2 seconds ahead of Andrew Bavage in second place, both paddling K1 kayaks. Danielle Appi was the first female across the finishing line in 1:39:23, paddling a single ocean ski.

Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club president Peter Hickey said he was pleased with the turnout as the race continues to get good support and positive feedback for the course.

“This sport provides a safe and healthy activity for paddlers of all ages who can choose a number of different crafts and options, including kayak sprinting, marathon paddling and ocean racing,” Hickey said.

“Whilst the Pacific Coast Marathon Series has now been completed for this year, there are still State Marathon Championships and the Pan Pacific Master Games at the Oxenford Watersports Centre over the next two months, plus a couple of ocean races.”

For more information on rowing in the area and Tweed River events, visit murwillumbahrowingclub.com.au