Canoeing Down The River

Members of the Gisborne and Wairoa Canoe Clubs competed in a canoe race down the Waimata River recently for the inter-club trophy, the Bill O'Connell Cup.

A handicap event, the race was won in the senior section by Bill O'Connell; the intermediate, by Pam Wilson; and the junior, by Gary Green. Over all the sections, the inter-club cup was won by Wairoa.

The canoeists started at Holden's ford, having several tricky rapids to shoot before entering the quieter waters of the lower Waimata.

Watched by other competitors, the first starters commence their journey from Holden's ford

Jim Gardner, Wairoa, and Bill O'Connell, Wairoa, (president of N.Z. Canoe Association) discuss the starters with handicapper Bill Bishop.

Graham Tardieu leads Gary Green and Barbara Wait down the island rapid

Gareth Hannah's canoe appears almost completely submerged as he shoots a rapid

Tony Ensor and Marlene Wilson were the only pair competing

John Hurrie, face set in concentration, tackles a rapid

Jim Gardner negotiates rough water on his way downstream to take second place in the seniors

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 112 : October 3, 1963

Canoeing Down The River