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Despite challenging conditions and cancellation of the last day of racing, NZ Surf Lifesaving’s National U14 event at Orewa was hailed as an event enjoyed by competitors and their families.
The event, also known as Oceans 18, was hosted by Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club and drew around 1000 competitors and their supporters to Orewa.
It was to run from March 1 to 4, but the final day was called off by NZ Surf Lifesaving. Orewa Surf Club president John Chapman says this was disappointing, but not the club’s decision. The club had suggested relocating to Stanmore Bay as an option. He says the type of races scheduled for the final day were not deemed safe in the conditions.
“We often hear that Orewa is a lake, but in that strong easterly we definitely proved that to be wrong,” John says.
He says overall he’s happy with how things went and the club will apply to host it again. “There was a great atmosphere and the kids had a good time,” he says. “I want to thank Red Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, whose members really helped us.”
Mt Maunganui, which has hosted the event in previous years, took the number one spot, proving that it’s not just the hometown advantage that’s behind their success.
Red Beach placed fourth, and Orewa ninth.
