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Mahurangi College students will be aiming for top prizes at the Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Nationals next year after a $2000 donation.
The college paddleboard group, led by one of New Zealand’s top paddlers Matt Anderson, used the money to buy a race board for competitive practice.
“If you want to compete at the higher level you need a race board so this gives the students a great opportunity to practice ahead of nationals in March next year,” Matt says.
The money was donated by the Les Ramsay Youth Trust, managed by Warkworth Rotary, which has been running since 1977.
The trust donates around $3500 every year to initiatives that have a positive impact on people under 18.
The trust recognised the paddleboard application for funding as beneficial for health and fitness, water safety skills and teamwork.
Matt says the standard of the students he is working with is very high with Heather Niccolls already claiming a national title in the 8km women’s division in April.
Board manufacturing company NSP, who sponsor Matt, gave the race board to the group for just $1000. The board normally retails for $4500.
As well as doing the nationals, the students will compete in a number of SUP events, including the Kowhai Festival Canoe Showdown.
