2025 Marathon Series

Calendar

  • Race 1 - Wagga - Saturday 1st February
  • Race 2 - Albury - Saturday 15th February (Frank Harrison Singles)
  • Race 3 - Albury - Sunday 16th February (Frank Harrison Doubles)
  • State Championships - Canberra - Friday 7th, Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th March
  • Race 4 - Lane Cove - Sunday 30th March
  • Nationals - Ascot WA - Thu 10-Sun 13 Apr
  • Race 5 - Davistown - Saturday 17th May
  • Race 6 - Woronora - Saturday 14th June
  • Race 7 - Swallow Rock - Saturday 12th July
  • Race 8 - Penrith - Sunday 3rd August
  • Race 9 - Narrabeen - Sunday 31st August
  • Race 10 - Windsor - Saturday 4th October

Links

Round #7 - Swallow Rock - 12 July

This race is hosted by Cronulla Sutherland Kayak Club.

Division 7 will start at 9:30am, Division 6 at 9.35, Division 5 at 9:45am, Division 4 at 9:50am, Division 3 at 9.55am. Divisions 1 and 2 will start at 10:00am with all remaining Divisions starting in numerical order at approximately 2 minute intervals thereafter.

Early Bird entries close midnight Monday 9 June and all registrations close midnight Wednesday 11 June, - no entries on the day.

Round #6 - Woronora - Sat 14 June

Confidence, Chaos and a Bit of Luck - from Alex R
(The Art of Looking Like You Know What You're Doing)
Saturday’s race at Woronora didn’t exactly roll out according to plan. I arrived fashionably late - so fashionably, in fact, that I missed the race briefing altogether. I also hadn’t exactly memorised the course map. But looking around at the crowd of serious paddlers, I wasn’t too fazed. With that many top-tier boats on the water, surely someone would know where we were going. I’d just follow the pointy ends.

With 11 boats in Division 1, one thing was certain: the back of the pack was not the place to be. That’s where paddles clash, boats bump, and energy gets chewed up in unnecessary drama. So, when the horn sounded, I hit the gas -just enough to keep clear of the mess and slide neatly onto James Harrington’s first wash. Moments in, I heard the telltale signs of chaos behind me. A surfski was barging up the V, tangling with Brett - who had every right to be there. Not keen to join the drama, I edged right off James’ wash to give Brett some room. But it was too late - he’d already been bumped off and left to regroup.

The group began to settle into a solid, punchy bunch of seven or eight boats. That’s when the first curveball came: a surprise island navigation section. Had I actually read the map, I might have expected it. But thanks to sheer luck of my positioning, I was in the right place to ride it out without issue. As we exited the island, the bunch hit full throttle. Matt and James took turns throwing down nasty intervals, and the pack started to splinter. Before long, only four boats remained. From there, it was all tactics. With James and Matt gearing up for the World Marathon Championships in Hungary this September, they weren’t shy about turning the screws. Interval after interval kept the pressure high and the rest of us guessing.

Eventually, Vuki (the last races winner) dropping off, leaving me alone with the two young guns - both of whom are, shall we say, not exactly in my age bracket. 😊

I decided to play it smart. I shuffled around the bunch, letting them trade blows while I did just enough to justify my seat in the trio. The pace was relentless, but I held my ground. Coming into the final sprint, James lit the afterburners. I knew my best shot at leapfrogging third was to hold his wash and launch just before the line. And it worked. I managed to sneak past Matt by a whisker and crossed in second, with the top three boats finishing almost within 1 second of each other.

It was a race of speed, strategy, and quick decisions - and despite the shaky start, one of the most entertaining battles I’ve had in a long time.


Above: l to r - Matt, James and Alex sprint for the line

Div 3 Washing Machine] - from Peter A
I had ambitious goals to try to make the Div3 podium for the first time (previous best Div3 5th place). The new format was exciting with potential wash rides coming through. Conditions for the race start were perfect for me, very cold and glassy. My tactics were simple: aim to catch and stay with the front pack from the start, hang onto the front pack for as long as possible, go for every wash ride that came past and get as far ahead of my fellow Lane Cove Div3 friends as possible before I faded in the final 5km (knowing all of them would be reeling me in towards the finish). I was also delighted to see four of Australia’s top female paddlers in our race: Naomi, Daniela, Laura Lee and Nicci Vesely (who was ranking). Laura was in top form and likely to be leading off the start and the favourite for the win. It was going to be a game of tactics and trying to stay with Laura.

I arrived late to the start line and took the far left place to stay out of trouble, although that positioning left me a lot to do to navigate the tricky dog leg around the island. I gunned it off the start and had to take the long way round to pull ahead then cut across some of the pack and try not to run aground on the shallow inside corner getting around the island. Laura, as expected was flying and pulling away from the rest of the pack. I managed somehow to eventually catch up to Laura and made it onto her wash. Nicci made it onto Laura’s other wash and we were a lead pack of 3 after 500m or so. All was going well until Nicci got a large stick stuck on her rudder which slowed her. She tried in vain to get it off to no avail. Eventually I offered to remove it so we both stopped paddling, I pulled the stick free and then we both hit the gas. By this stage Laura was still flying and more than 20m ahead of us. I gave it everything to drag myself and Nicci back through Laura’s wash to get back to her shoulder. I was completely cooked by then and took at least another 2-3 mins to recover sitting on Laura’s wash. Nicci then dropped back and it was just Laura and I in the front pack, still going very quickly and putting distance on the followers. After I recovered I took my first wash lead and then Laura and I swapped wash leads every 1km or so.

About 7km into the race I noticed the front Div1 pack of four flying up behind us with Alex in the driver’s seat. So it was a flat out sprint to try to get onto the Div1 leader’s wash going at least 2kmh faster than we were previously going. I was hanging on for my life, and pushing as hard as I could go, out of control and afraid to look at my Heart Rate monitor (sitting on 178 bpm). I managed to hold on longer than I ever thought possible (probably 2-3 mins) before dropping back and taking a long while to recover. Laura and I regrouped amongst the vortex wash swirl and gradually settled back into our rhythm, continuing swapping our wash leads. Then the second Div1 pack of four came past about 9km in and we gave that a go but I was gassed from my previous effort and I lasted less than a minute on their wash. By that stage I was trying hard to stay upright and regather myself in all the swirly wash and then regroup with Laura and continue the wash leads rhythm.

Things settled down after that and it was glorious paddling until I started feeling the pinch, hitting the wall about 17km in, knowing that my lack of distance training had finally caught up to me….it was now all about hanging on and hoping that the fast finishing Naomi wouldn’t catch us before the line. At the final turn I noticed that Naomi had significantly closed the gap behind us and was wash riding Dimi, quickly gaining on us. I was determined to get a silver or gold so had to dig deep and grit my teeth for the final 2km. Laura and I kept swapping leads and I asked Laura to race me for the line. I managed to push hard to just keep my nose in front to take my first Div3 victory. Laura was absolutely brilliant to paddle with and I am so stoked with my first Div3 win.


Peter sprints for the line - just inching out Laura from BGCC

Above: Results for LCRKers

Round #5 - Davistown - Sat 17 May

Hosted by Brisbane Wates Paddlers. Location is Restella Avenue, Davistown.


Above: Results for LCRKers

Round #4 - Lane Cove - 30 Mar

Lane Cove hospitality shines through at their wet and windy marathon – race 4 in the PaddleNSW marathon series

Lane Cove River Kayakers shortened the course from a 10km loop to a 7.5km loop and it proved to be a good decision given the inclement weather. PaddleNSW Marathon Series paddlers were able to avoid the boat traffic by turning short of Figtree Bridge and getting a little protection from the wind. A Water Police officer had commented that "no boats go upstream of that bridge" and our Safety Boats were the only power boats to be seen north of Figtree. There were, however, 118 paddle powered boats and the 20km Division paddlers proved they can count to three (2x7.5km laps followed by one 5km lap).

Just to keep everyone on their toes, the tide fell rapidly from 1.8 metres at 10am and stormwater from continuous rain the previous day poured downriver and out of the side creeks. Returns upstream were much slower than the downstream rush. The wind caused a few capsizes, and some found it a challenge to launch and exit from the pontoon. The wind and current also caused a couple of buoys to drift, so the course was slightly shorter than advertised. However paddlers generally looked tired and happy as they made it past the finish line, and were most grateful for the boat-carrying service at the pontoon.


Above: Anjie & Dave Div 7 2nd place (Photo: Tom H)

LCRK prides itself on supporting our visitors with good food and lots of assistance - not just carrying boats up the steps from the pontoon, but unstrapping them from roofracks on arrival.

More than 40 volunteers were involved, only some of whom were also able to compete.

Tango Charlie Lights, Marathon Series sponsor, was there with a stall that many visited. Our brilliant photographers (credits to Tom Holloway and Ian Wrenford) seemed to be everywhere, on water and off, recording happy and intense faces and their boats. A few photos are recorded here. Many, many more are available through the Flickr links above.

The trophies from the State championships were stuck in Canberra when their driver decided not to brave the winds on the drive north, but the winners were announced as Burley Griffin Canoe Club for both The Tongway (best performing Club) and the Joan Morison (Club with best performing Females).

It was good to see a new face on the Division 1 podium, with Michael Stewart pushing James Harrington all the way. It was good to see SUPs, canoes and an outrigger.


Above: Division 1 (Photo: Tom H)

And it was great to see so many young paddlers from Manly Warringah Kayak Club and a wide range of ages all the way up to Justin Paine at age 90


Above: Results for LCRKers

States 7-9 Mar - Canberra

REPORT from Don J
I decided to make it a full weekend of paddling so entered all 4 races at the state champs.

It started with a bit of excitement when I got stuck in Sydney traffic leaving Sydney and arrived at 7:10pm for a 7:!5 race start for the Short Course on Friday night. Thankfully I'd lined up a Formula One pit crew. Andy had picked up my number. Kev was there to greet me and untie my ski. Who needs a warm-up when you have that much adrenalin? It did confirm to me that I'm no sprinter. Slow off the start (for which my cardiologist is grateful) and ran out of runway to mow down the 4 in front.

The Long Course on Saturday was probably my best race. Fuelled by a share of Chris' kilogram of bacon, I squeezed onto the podium - mine being one of the few State races where a podium finish is not guaranteed. (editor: Don’s understating his performance). Every Lane Cove paddler was enthusiastically and loudly cheered going past the pontoon, adding to the cameraderie and atmosphere. Then off to the Brewery to prepare for Sunday.

Both doubles races were a lot of fun. In the Men's doubles, I teamed with Rich in Black Betty - auditioning to be understudy for Keg. The 3 boats in our age category paddled as a pack until we put on the Keg-light after-burners on the last short lap for a comfortable win.

Then I teamed up with Karen in a K2 that some mistook for a submarine. A bit of resistance training with my weight in the front seat ensuring we were paddling downhill. And I was surprised to see Gareth on my wash for the 2nd race in a row - this time with his wife and paddling debutant Venice. Gareth also had marching orders from his cardiologist, so thought it was wiser to let us surge ahead after the first lap. But we then encountered another double under doctor's orders. Steve and Cass - preparing for a swift exit to deliver their baby - set a cracking pace off the line, and we did them the favour of clearing a path in front of them after lap 2.

So 2 golds, a bronze and a must-try-harder capped off a great weekend. Really well organised, as always, by Burley Griffin.

Some really impressive portaging by James, James, Brett, Dimmy, Dani in their ICF long course up against some stiff competition and then great to hear their cheers of encouragement when it was our turn.

And I also enjoyed the spectating - with some lively commentary by Margi Bohm, Mike McKeogh and others.


Above: Results for LCRKers and regular Wednesday TTers

Boat classes:

ICF Class is for ICF K and C boats and includes portage (for paddlers up to 64 years of age) as specified by ICF Rules. If you wish to be considered for selection to the PaddleNSW Marathon team to compete at the 2025 PA National Championships in Perth (WA), you must enter this class. You can still enter this class if you do not wish to be considered for selection (but you must portage as per ICF rules).

General Class is for all boat types (including ICF K and C boats) Paddlers are not required to portage. Paddlers who win their respective classes will be eligible for selection to the PaddleNSW Marathon Team to compete at PA National Championships (in the same General Class).

Friday evening - SHORT COURSE SINGLES
- Session 1 @ 19:00 - ICF Class (Portage)
- Session 2 @ 19:15 - All boats/All ages (No Portage)

Saturday - LONG COURSE SINGLES
- Session 1 @ 10:00 - ICF Open, U23, U18, Masters (35-64)
- Session 2 @ 13:00 - ICF Masters (65+), General Class (all ages), Para, Juniors (U10-U18), Novice Race & SUP

Sunday - LONG COURSE DOUBLES
- Session 1 @ 08:30 - ICF & General Class Open, U18, Masters, Para & Juniors
- Session 2 @ 12:30 - ICF & General Class Mixed - All ages

For Masters competition, initial registrations will be in 10-year age groups. If sufficient entries are received, and both 5-year sub-brackets can be constituted (3 entries per sub-bracket), classes will be restructured and raced accordingly. To facilitate constitution of Classes paddlers may be asked to paddle down an age bracket.

You can enter up to four (4) events.....(EG: Short Course Singles, Long Course Singles, Doubles & Mixed Doubles) Identify how many events you want to enter, and select your Registration Fee accordingly.

There is an option to enter Short Course ONLY. This gives you entry to one of the Friday evening races ONLY, and does not include the event T-Shirt.

Your entry fee includes a unique "States with Mates" T-Shirt. Please ensure you advise what size T-Shirt you require, and it will be available for collection in Canberra. (except for Short Course ONLY entrants)

Remember to order your T-Shirt BEFORE the close of Early Bird (16th February) to guarantee that you get the size that you order. Orders received after Early Bird cannot be guaranteed to be available in the ordered size.

Any questions about the event or entry can be directed to events@paddlensw.org.au

This event canot be run without the help of Volunteers and/or Officials. BGCC needs your help to deliver this event and if you can provide some time to act as a Volunteer or Official please do so. Not all Volunteers need to be Officials.....you can help just by handing out Race Numbers, or counting laps/portages, or even as an observer.

Regular paddlers who do offer to assist as a Volunteer/Official can obtain a $10 discounted entry to their next Marathon Series event - see Margi or Bob for more details after you've answered YES to the Volunteer question below.

A Friday night buffet dinner will be available and catered by Chef Maria – always a great range of food options and always good value. The Buffet Table will include a hotpot, pasta dishes, grilled meat dishes, salads, desserts and a soft drink. All for just $20.00 per person. (order & pay with event entry) Vegan, dairy free and gluten free options are available - please advise when entering.

Saturday Dinner and Medal Presentations will be at the Capital Brewery from 6:30pm. Capital Brewery

Marathon Nationals Thu 10 - Sun 13 Apr - Ascot Kayak Club WA

The event will run from Thursday 10th April to Sunday 13th April at Ascot Kayak Club on the Swan River near Perth Airport.

The schedule for the Event is: Thursday morning: Event opening; Thursday afternoon: SUP Marathon, U10/U12 & Non-Champ Two Lap; Friday: Short Course & Mixed Doubles; Saturday: Marathon Singles, Sunday: Marathon Doubles.


Above: Results for LCRKers

Round #2 & #3 Frank Harrison Memorial Albury 15-16 Feb

Murray River, Albury

There are two races over two days, with singles on Saturday and doubles on Sunday (you can paddle either singles or doubles on both days if you wish). You may enter one or both days.

Day 1 Report (Chris J)
Day 1 singles completed in WINDY swirly flowing water. Lane Cove River Kayakers had a great day with Div 1 places James Harrington second and Alex James Roberts 4. First place Womens canoe Esther Wheeler, amazing!

Div 2 & 3 Andrew Pratley, Daniela Torre & Chris Johnson paddled the last 6 Km together and they placed, with Don Johnstone president just behind. This race is a lock for the diary next year. Day 2 doubles tomorrow


Above: Day 1 results for LCRKers

Above: Team photo standing in front of Hume dam

Above: Day 2 results for LCRKers

Round #1 - Wagga - 1 Feb

Wagga Bidgee Canoe Club hosted the first round of the PaddleNSW 2025 Marathon Series offering a one-way, down river courses for all Divisions.

Report: Alex Roberts Div1. First Race For LC
Ah, the Wagga Bidgee Marathon—a day when the Murrumbidgee River becomes the playground for paddlers with a penchant for both competition and camaraderie. With the club minibus to whisk us away to Wagga Wagga and a cozy house secured for the crew, what a great way to commute to a race, enabling some solid paddling chit chat along the way. Sure, there were a few hiccups with the logistics—but hey, lessons learned for next time, right? To make the trip even more memorable, my club mates made sure we stopped at the appropriate tourist attractions along the way, including the iconic Giant Merino and the legendary Dog on a Tucker Box, adding a touch of adventure to the journey.

The race itself was a delightful departure from the usual flat-water grind. The point-to-point course on the flowing Murrumbidgee presented just enough challenge to keep us on our toes. Eddies and currents lay in wait to catch the unwary, and the occasional submerged log added a dash of excitement. My start was less than stellar; a mid-sprint wobble had me playing catch-up with the lead pack. Eventually, James Harrington, Matt Gates, Craig Elliott, and I settled into a quartet, cruising along with the current at an impressive 17 km/h for the first 8 km. There's something undeniably satisfying about watching the scenery blur by as you paddle.

At the 8 km mark, the pace became too hot to handle for Craig and I, and we watched as James and Matt pulled away. Left to our own devices, Craig and I soldiered on until, with about 4 km to go, a determined James Pralija and his entourage of three other boats caught up to us. James P was on a mission, charging toward the finish. The final sprint started early and before we could even see the finish line, Craig seized an opportunity when James P missed a stroke in a current, but James P responded with a burst of power. This tussle played to my advantage, as their efforts left them spent for the final dash.

I'd like to thank all in the club for fantastic support in handling the logistics, making it easy for newcomers like myself to take part in and enjoy the race without the usual stress of planning and coordination.


Above: Most of the LCRK team at Wagga

Above: Are we there yet?

Above: Results for LCRKers and regular TTers