After two days of perfect conditions while setting up for the weekend’s rowing under Covid Alert Level 2, we were greeted by a brisk southerly on Saturday (9th Oct) morning. After numerous delays the Concept 2 R2K Regatta was abandoned at 1pm without any races being run. This was a disappointment for those who had put in the hard yards over the winter and were not involved in the Interprovincial Regatta.
As the wind started to drop at 2pm Saturday, the decision was made to start the lnterprovincial regatta at the allotted time of 2.30pm even though conditions were marginal. Marlborough got off to a flyer with wins in the first two races much to the surprise of some but by the end of the day Otago had a slim lead over Canterbury.
Sunday (10th Oct) dawned fine and calm with perfect water for rowing. Defending champions Otago increased their lead early on but were slowly overhauled on the points table by Canterbury who went on to win this years Mainland lnterprovincial Regatta.
Overall points tally: CRA 71, ORA 58, MRA 37, and SRA 14.
Rowers and officials alike embraced the rules around Covid Level 2 and many were relieved with Sport New Zealand’s Friday (8th Oct) announcement lifting restrictions on numbers for sporting events (a decision which has since been revised to return to restricted gatherings). Race officials enjoyed a good relaxed regatta which allowed some trainee umpires and some more experienced umpires to try out some new positions of responsibility.
Report: Geoff Taggart (Chief Umpire)
Imagery and video: Sharron Bennett www.sharronbennettphotography.com
R2K Regatta Chief Starter Lauren Farnden 
