Grafton third in boat regatta

Teams in the open division race for the finish line at Darling Harbour.

THE Grafton Dragon Boat Club travelled down to Sydney last weekend to compete in the largest race regatta in NSW.

The Chinese New Year regatta which has more than 135 teams entered in seven divisions.

Teams came from as far south as Moruya, as far west as Orange and Dubbo, and as far north as Byron Bay to battle with the strong Sydney-based clubs.

Darling Harbour provides a spectacular backdrop to the regatta with the races starting under Pyrmont Bridge and finishing at the old wharfside.

Grafton’s first race resulted in a disappointing last place when a strong rip and boat wash forced the team’s boat off course.

However Grafton came back with a strong result in the second heat to win a place in the regional final.

A powerful start in the final saw Grafton take the lead over the other five teams.

However the lead was whittled back and Newcastle and Camden Haven were able to push Grafton back into a third place finish.

The Chinese New Year regatta is the start of a long season of racing on the North Coast, with the next regatta at Taree in two week’s time.

Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Terry Davis on 6642 2360 or Mary Butler on 0408 558 226, or turn up to the Beginner Sessions on Tuesday afternoon at 4.30pm Tuesday or 9.00am on Saturday at the ramp below the Crown Hotel.