CLUB MARINE SOUTHERN 80 OPENS TOMORROW
Mild temperatures and endless entertainment are forecast for the Club Marine Southern 80 Waterski race when it kicks off on the Murray River tomorrow morning at the Moama Sound Shell.
More than 600 entrants are scheduled to hit the river over the weekend as they take on 80 gruelling kilometres of twists and turns over 126 corners at speeds the the organisers say exceed over 200kmh.
This year’s “must see” viewing location is said to the Victoria Park Boat Ramp. It is the official finishing line compound, located on Scenic Drive in Echuca, and spectators can see all the river action on a big screen.
The Kelly Brothers of V8 Supercars fame will be present at the compound (and competing in the race), and they will showcase their V8 car as part of the Echuca-Moama Tourism launch. Visitors can also test their skill in a V8 simulator.
Other events to look out for include the Tip Top Baker’s Blitz, the Fearless Echuca Presidents Invitational Dash, and the Total Tools-Epping Static Display, where some of the best presented boats will vie for the top prize.
Visitors are encouraged to be in Hare Street, Echuca, from 9am, to see the best presented teams. There will also be fashion parades from local surfwear retailers, and thousands of dollars in prizes will be up for grabs in raffles throughout the morning.
The Club Marine Southern 80 Waterski race is, according to the organisers, the largest waterski race of its kind in the world. This year marks the 45th time that the event runs, after it was cancelled mid-race last year due to bushfires and soaring temperatures.
Visitors can tune in to 102.5FM for up-to-date coverage, or by visiting the official twitter page, www.twitter.com/southern80. Alternatively, head to www.southern80.com.au for more information.