Sunset Bay Outriggers Canoe Club continues its impressive progress in 2025, with another successful campaign at the NQ Zone Grand Prix in Airlie Beach over the May long weekend.
Despite extremely challenging weather conditions, wind gusts reaching 35 knots and heavy rain affecting visibility, both junior and senior paddlers from the club rose to the occasion.
The club is especially proud of its two newest junior athletes, Tess Armstrong and Zara Hegarty, who displayed remarkable skill and determination. Having only joined the Sunset Bay junior program on March 1, 2025, both girls bring surf lifesaving experience to the sport and have quickly become rising talents to watch.
Under the guidance of junior coach Heath Cruckshank, whose dedication has laid the foundation for this success, the pair delivered outstanding results:
Zara Hegarty (U14) – OC6 2km Gold, OC6 500m Gold
Tess Armstrong (U19) – OC6 4km Gold, OC6 500m Gold
U19 OC2 (Armstrong & Hegarty pairing) – Gold, in what was hailed the race of the day, defeating a field of more experienced junior competitors.
Senior members of Sunset Bay also had reason to celebrate, claiming Gold in the OC6 18.5km marathon from Shute Harbour to Airlie Beach. A highlight of the regatta was the Platinum Men’s 70+ crew – featuring three paddlers over 80 years old and three in their 70s – demonstrating remarkable endurance and team spirit.
The club congratulates all new members who attended their first regatta, as well as the entire team for their commendable efforts.
Sunset Bay now looks ahead to the Australian National Long Distance Titles in Mooloolaba, set to take place from May 23–25.
Sunset Bay paddlers powered through wild weather to strike gold across junior and senior divisions at the NQ Zone Grand Prix in Airlie Beach, showcasing rising stars and legendary endurance. Photos supplied
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