Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club

The Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club, located in Clive, is a sports club dedicated to the development, growth, and promotion of sprint kayaking within the Hawkes Bay Region of New Zealand. Established in October 2005, the club originated from the collaboration of members from three of Hawkes Bay's Surf Life Saving Clubs who sought to affiliate with the national kayak racing body.

With over 16 years of existence, the Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club has consistently achieved exceptional success, producing top-quality athletes who have triumphed in national competitions and represented New Zealand at an international level. The club operates from Farndon Park, which beautifully sits on the banks of the scenic Clive River.

At the Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club, strong values are deeply ingrained within the club's ethos. Spirit is fostered, ensuring that every member is actively involved and motivated to contribute. The club prides itself on being inclusive, offering participation opportunities to all individuals. Mutual respect is upheld among members, and they hold great regard for their equipment and club facilities.

The club is transparent, open, and accountable, maintaining a strong sense of integrity. Additionally, the Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club focuses on nurturing its athletes and coaches, supporting them to achieve their full potential. The club emphasises teamwork not only among members but also extends its support to other clubs within the kayaking community.

The Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club boasts an iconic black and white club uniform, consisting of a singlet, hooded sweatshirt, and caps, creating a sense of unity and identity among members.

For individuals interested in becoming members, the Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club provides various membership options. The single competitive membership is priced at $100, while the family membership is available for $150. Additionally, associate membership is offered at $50, and masters membership for novice paddlers in their first year costs $50. There are also separate fees for annual club gear usage, boat storage, and squad coaching per term.

Due to high demand, limited equipment, and coach availability, the club currently operates a waitlist for new paddlers, with invitations extended based on the waitlist duration and the need for paddlers in specific age groups to facilitate the formation of team boats in the future.

The club is governed by a dedicated committee composed of Chairperson Lionel da Silva, Secretary Miki Skeels, Treasurer Kirsteen Keene, Child Protection Officer Mary Robertson, Senior Coach Ben Bennett, Funding Officer Darren Brown, Media Officer Helen Tasker, Maree Parsonson, and Anna Henricksen. The committee ensures the smooth operation of the club and coordinates various initiatives and activities.

The Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club provides comprehensive training programmes for paddlers of different skill levels. The novice kayak group, led by Coach Barry Coleman, is tailored for newcomers to the sport. While currently on a waitlist, paddlers in this group are invited to trial the sport for a period before committing to membership. The novice group competes in three major regattas during the sprint season, as well as various events in the winter 10 km series.

Due to limited kayaks, availability is subject to the number of participants, and a coaching fee of $50 per term is applicable. This group is suitable for younger paddlers aged 13 or 14, or those with limited kayak or surf ski experience.

The intermediate training group, guided by Coach Grant Morrish, is designed for paddlers with a basic level of skill in a K1 and are race-ready. Paddlers from the novice kayak group can request an assessment to enter this group. The intermediate group competes in major regattas during the sprint season and participates in the winter 10 km series. Training is held four times a week, and a coaching fee of $80 per term is required.

The senior training group, under the leadership of Coach Ben Bennett, caters to experienced paddlers. More advanced in their skills, this group competes in major regattas and is actively involved in the winter 10 km series. Training sessions are conducted four times a week, and a coaching fee of $125 per term applies.

For more information or inquiries, individuals can reach out to the Hawkes Bay Kayak Racing Club via the provided contact details on their website. The club welcomes all passionate individuals looking to experience the thrill and excitement of sprint kayaking and invites them to be part of their vibrant and successful community.