Race Day Summaries

WHANGAMATA

Whangamata  |  03 January 2011

Type: National Surfcross

High tide: 07:00

SUMMARY

Round one of the national surf cross series is always an extremely popular event. Seventeen boats were entered for 2011 and although numbers were slightly down on previous years the level of competition was as high as ever.

A crowd in excess of 5000 gathered under brilliant sunshine to enjoy a day of close racing and spectacular entertainment afforded by the 1m plus of surf rolling onto the beach.

All crews were race prepared after the Christmas layover and placings were hotly contested. In the ideal surf conditions positions changed with every lap, the steep faces on the waves providing plenty of air to the delight of the spectators if not the drivers.

After 5 rounds of heats the dominant boats were Smuggler Marine, Blackpepper and Jungle Coffee who went on complete the final and the day in those positions. The only incident of the day was from Quin Buildings whose co-pilot Michael Harmen was ejected from the boat into the path of Blackpepper during a hard fought heat. Michael was unfortunate to break several ribs and suffer a punctured lung but did get a free ride in a helicopter. We wish Michael all the best for a speedy recovery. The incident vindicated the use of propeller guards as required for the safety of all competitors. Michael’s injuries would definitely have been more severe had guards not been present. The day concluded with rides for the public which as always are a popular PR exercise plus generate funds for the club.

Special thanks to all the marshalls but also to the Whangamata Surf Lifesaving Club whose valued co-operation made it a successful and entertaining day.