PADDLE INFO

KAYAK CONDITIONS

• Single kayaks/surf-skis only
• All craft must have positive buoyancy with integral/fixed flotation this means they must float when full of water.
• Buoyancy vests must be worn, even by ski paddlers
• Helmets are not required
• If paddlers require assistance, then the signal is paddle raised vertically in the air.
• Paddlers must heed advice from the rescue personal, and craft may be abandoned if the situation arises and recovered later.  This is not at the discretion of the paddler.
• Bladder style drinking systems containing carbohydrate replacement fluid are strongly recommended and competitors should ensure they are comfortable with their operation prior to the event
• We advise you to wear or carry (waterproofed) something warm to avoid becoming hypothermic in the event of a swim as the water will be very cold.
• Please assist any paddlers in trouble and alert the nearest official or use your phone. You time will be adjusted accordingly.

KAYAK CHECK-IN

It is your sole responsibility to ensure the good condition of your craft and safe paddling during the event.

Officials will check any craft that looks unsafe.  To avoid rejection you should ensure your craft is seaworthy and meets buoyancy requirements. Sea kayaks must have sealed bulk heads or carry fixed flotation. Craft should be free from cracks, holes or jagged repairs. You should ensure your craft will not leak or sink during the race.

Team members can assist their team paddler as they launch and exit their kayak or ski. Individuals may be assisted onto the water by up to 2 members of their support crew.

KAYAK COURSE

Approximate distance: 10 km

Estimated time: 50min – 2hrs

Paddlers will start on the water between the 'start buoys' and follow the 'sausage' shaped course. Two laps of the course are required, paddlers then exit the water, leave their craft and follow the track up through the beach to the transition area to tag their road cyclist.

Sea kayaks, racing kayaks and surf skis would be the most suitable craft to paddle.

The water will be very cold if you are unfortunate enough to capsize. Paddle an appropriate craft and carry something warm to put on in the event of a swim.

For safety reasons, participants are strongly encouraged to carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag (eg. Ziplock). The phone number for event safety will be passed on to competitors prior to the event.

There will be support craft patrolling the course, if you need assistance signal them by raising your paddle vertically in the air. Paddlers must heed advice from the rescue personal, and craft may be abandoned if the situation arises and recovered later.  This is not at the discretion of the paddler.

The pin-on race number from your race kit must be clearly displayed on the front of your outer garment/life jacket