The first 2025/26 HWS race was attended by 11 dragon boat crews and 9 waka ama (outrigger) crews. The race took place in ideal river conditions, with the forecast rain holding off.
Our waka ama entered as a Mixed crew, ie three men and three women, and completed the 12kms course in a time of 59:31 not only to win the Mixed class but also to beat the Open crews, so were the fastest overall waka ama crew.
Our dragon boat crew entered as a Mixed crew and ran with only 16 paddlers, instead of the usual 20, due four of the crew having to drop out shortly before the event through ill health. The tough race became even tougher with the depleted number of paddlers but we finished second in class and third overall. Henley Dragons won the Mixed class, beating us by 34 seconds, with the Open class being won by Rafters.
Great racing on a lovely stretch of river. We are looking forward to the next HWS race on 02 November.