An annual Foxton Loop Race has turned into a truly multisport event with the 32nd running of the race last weekend attracting the largest variety of waka ever.
The event was organised by Welly Paddlers and among the 77 paddlers and 49 vessels were waka ama, multisport kayaks, sea kayaks, surf skis and surf lifesaving kneeboards.
Welly Paddlers’ Chester Burt said it was truly an event for all ages with Rhyleigh Judd from Foxton Beach the youngest competitor entered, while Ashurst man Max Grant, 77, was the oldest.
“Paddlers love coming to the Foxton Loop and a big part of that is Foxton’s central location and range of course options and the fact that it is a very unique waterway,” he said.
![The youngest paddler on the water for the Foxton Loop Race was 8, the oldest 77.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/CSSW4M3IVVEF3GY3OXA7TTTOOA.jpg?auth=dc4f2bfa21aa7dc094c1c94b904f5e07c05a656d34bd5b85451e55e7073cc581&width=16&height=9&quality=70&smart=true)