INSTEAD of entering the gruelling Navy Surf Boat Marathon, one Tathra Surf Life Saving Club team decided to go for a relaxing paddle.
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A five-day 404km paddle down the Murray River that is.
The squad, does have one reprieve - today (Friday) is its last day on the water.
The team is on the final day of the Massive Murray Paddle, an event with the motto of “can you go the distance?”
Organisers said the event is one of the longest paddling races in the world and has run since 1969.
However, it is more than just a race, but an opportunity to appreciate some of Australia’s natural environment in the Murray region from a fairly unique perspective.
With more than 250 entrants, the paddle is aimed at canoes and kayaks and the lone surf boat team is causing quite a stir.
“If they finish, they should win their division,” Chris Murphy, wife of one of the rowers, said with a laugh.
Despite being a bit out of their depth in the calm conditions of the river, day one did provide some dramatic weather.
A storm surge knocked a number of trees into the river and the first leg of the course had to be re-run for safety.
The squad has been camping river-side and has to travel with three cars, and graciously a team cook, in support.