Sunday, January 17, 2010

2009 Wildwater World Cup – Rapid Descent Racing summary

Rick Eaves Photography
http://www.rickeaves.com/

Rick Eaves Photography
http://www.rickeaves.com/

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fx.signs@bigpond.net.au


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The Examiner


The Mercury


2009 Wildwater World Cup – Rapid Descent Racing summary

Recently, the annual six-race Wildwater World Cup was held in Tasmania. Following a successful host bid in 2007, Tasmania got the opportunity to run the World Cup outside of Europe for only the 3rd time in its history.

Over 70 competitors from 15 countries took part in the series that used the Mersey River, Brady’s Lake Whitewater Course, Ouse River and Cataract Gorge. Whitewater, sunshine and wild places enabled spectacular racing that showcased the sport at its best, captured massive media attention and inspired another generation of young paddlers.

The Tasmanian-based Rapid Descent Racing team of Dan Hall, Ben Maynard and Stewart Bennett were part of a 13-person Australian team at the World Cup, and produced some career-best performances on their home courses in front of a parochial home crowd. Dan Hall opened his account with 2 medals and was consistently in medal contention throughout the World Cup, finishing an outstanding 6th overall. Ben Maynard placed in the top 6 on three occasions and finished in 10th. Stewart Bennett, in only his 3rd year of a comeback to the sport, placed 21st overall.


Highlights include:

World Cup Race

Dan Hall

Ben Maynard

Stewart Bennett

1

2* (PB)

13 (PB)

18

2

3* (PB)

6 (PB)


3

9

5 (PB)

15

4

5

20


5


6

16

6

9

16


Overall ranking

6 (PB)

10 (PB)

21

* Medal, (PB) Personal best


Following the World Cup, the Australian Championships for Xtreme Kayaking were held on Cataract Gorge, Launceston. Dan Hall enjoyed a continuation of his good form to beat a star-studded field and walk away with his 3rd consecutive Cataract Xtreme title.

The RDR crew has had a well-earned break during November, and has been back on deck since December training for their next campaign. This will be the 2010 Wildwater World Championships in Sort, Spain during June, followed by World Cups in Slovenia, Italy and Austria during July. Most of the Australian summer will be spent training locally for these events, prior to departure for Europe in April/May.

For all the action from the recent World Cup, check out the website:

http://www.wildwatertasmania.canoe.org.au/

The RDR crew would like to sincerely thank all sponsors and supporters for their assistance during 2009. We look forward to working with you in 2010.

Cheers,

Ben, Dan and Stew