Aoraki Dragon Boat
Association (Inc)
Christchurch, NZ

Kaiapoi River Festival

Kaiapoi Promotions presented the "Kaiapoi River Carnival" on 6-December-08, with a variety of activities and sports on show. They asked Aoraki to bring two or three boats, and to stage a race.

The day was also an opportunity to trial the new purpose-built Dragon Boat trailer. Kaiapoi's Dragon Boat stalwart, Rick Smith, towed two boats on the trailer (with only a minor mishap!) to the boat ramp by the Kaiapoi Swing Bridge.

"Evacut Express", representing 'Patience and Nicholson' manufacturing, provided a (nearly) full boat. An "Invitation Team" made up of Airways, ABOL and Sampan paddlers took the Black Boat.

Just after midday, the boats made an impressive arrival along the river, under the main bridge and past MV Tuhoe to the start position.  

Crowds along both banks plus the bridge cheered on, mostly encouraging the local Evacut Crew, who took the win from the first race.

The invitation crew had a reshuffle with Sampan's Rosie having a break from Drummer, taken over by Dale ('Scruffy') Hewinson. Back to the Tuhoe for another start, but I guess Scruffy's power and technique were missing, so Rick Smith's Evacut took the second and final race.

Boats and heads etc were loaded back onto the trailer, allowing just enough time to head to Kaiapoi's main street for the Santa parade at about 1:00. 

Thanks to the volunteers who came down, giving up valuable rest and preparation time before the next day's Ice Breaker at Kerr's Reach.