About 150 paddlers are gearing up for the sixth round of Paddle NSW’s 2025 Marathon Series set to take place on the scenic Woronora River on June 14. Hosted by the Sutherland Shire Paddle Club (SSPC), the event promises a display of skill and endurance in various watercraft categories including kayaks, canoes, surf skis, outriggers, and stand-up paddle boards.
Participants of all ages and skill levels, from seasoned veterans to budding enthusiasts, will converge on Burnum Burnum Reserve to compete in races covering distances of five, 10, 15, and the main 20-kilometer course. The competition will see paddlers navigate downstream from Bonnet Bay boat ramp to Thompsons Bay before making the return journey to Prince Edward Park.
The Woronora River has been a longstanding venue for this annual event, tracing its roots back to the late 1980s when it was known as the Twin Rivers Classic. Over the years, the race has evolved into one of the premier fixtures in the Paddle NSW marathon series, attracting participants not only from the greater Sydney area but also from regions as far as the South Coast, Hunter Valley, Canberra, Newcastle, and even Victoria.
Ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the event, the SSPC has collaborated with local authorities, including the SES, and a dedicated team of volunteers. The river will remain open to regular traffic on the day, with safety boats stationed along the course to enforce waterway speed limits and ensure a secure environment for all involved.
Club officials will be on standby from daybreak, anticipating the arrival of paddlers around 7:30-8:00 am, with the first racers hitting the water at 9:30 am. The fastest competitors are expected to complete the challenging 20km course in approximately 90 minutes, making for an exhilarating spectacle for spectators.
For those keen to witness the action firsthand, prime viewing spots are available along the waterfront at Burnum Burnum Reserve or the coffee shop/park on the Menai side of the bridge. The event promises a vibrant atmosphere, with the area bustling with activity until early afternoon as competitors give their all in pursuit of victory.
Following the Woronora race, the paddlers will reconvene in the shire on July 12 for the seventh race in the series, hosted by the Cronulla Sutherland Kayak Club at Swallow Rock Reserve in Grays Point. With local paddlers currently leading the points tally in various divisions, both races are poised to deliver intense competition and thrilling displays of skill and determination.
As the marathon series progresses, paddlers will compete in three more events before culminating in the final race of the season, culminating in a grand presentation ceremony in Windsor. These events not only showcase the athleticism and camaraderie within the paddling community but also highlight the natural beauty and recreational opportunities afforded by the picturesque waterways of New South Wales.
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