The start of the New Zealand Boat Marathon Commission (NZBMC) race days for 2022 is scheduled for Cromwell, Lake Dunstan, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April.
The NZBMC is an overseeing body that coordinates and promotes responsible boating, allowing boating clubs to organise and run events that all boat owners can be a part of.
Convenor Daniel Rule is relieved that the season will finally go ahead, saying, “We are pretty excited that locals will be able to witness 40-odd boats, from all over the South Island, plus a few extras from the North Island, competing over the two days.”
The boats can travel up to 190 kph, and there will be a great variety of vessels in the mix. With 9 different classes there is a class to suit whatever boat you have in your garage, as long as it meets safety requirements.
Daniel is the Vice Commodore of the Cromwell Boat Club, as well as the national president of the New Zealand Marathon Commission.
He says, “Pretty much anyone can compete in any boat, gain high points and have a great time.”
Each class is required to complete a certain number of laps. Faster boats must complete more laps than slower boats, resulting in most classes completing at a similar time, making for exciting finishes.
The Cromwell event is the first of the season’s rounds, with others planned for Lake Tekapo, Timaru Harbour, Lake Benmore, Lake Aviemore, Lake Te Anau and Lake Waihola – one every three weeks over the next 3 to 4 months.
Socialising, and Southern hospitality, will be a major part of the events.
The NZBMC prize-giving will be held in Invercargill on 6 August.
The public are invited to go along, watch the racing and chat with the drivers.
