Thursday, 30 December 2004

The Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon confronts competitors with a multitude of challenges in each leg of the race. Whilst last year paddlers found themselves battling swarming mosquitoes and a blistering sun, this time chilly starts and strong winds are making what is already a challenging task just that little bit trickier.  

Like most competitors who volunteer to become a part of the marathon, Brisbane local Rob Coutts is looking forward to seeing the finishing line.

"I plan to keep steady on the first and second day, and hopefully survive the third. I'm going to go for it on the fourth and fifth. I'd like to get a placing, but I just hope to get through to the finish," he said.

Entering for the second time, Coutts knows what to expect from the race, and his triathlon experience does help him endure what nature throws his way.

"I do this race about once every five years. I'm very competitive, athletic and enthusiastic about paddling. I love a good challenge."

The event has attracted many elite athletes from Queensland, including Jo-Anne Whatley who is the leading women's ski paddler and a past Devondale Iron Woman competitor.  She's competing alongside Gayle Maynes who was a Barcelona Olympian in the Ladies 4 Person Kayak.  Although this is their first time competing in the Murray (although Maynes has been part of a support crew) you/ can be sure this is one team that will make an impression. 

The five day, 404km Murray river marathon attracts more than 3500 people, including almost 750 paddlers and 3000 volunteers and support staff each year.

Fundraising Manager of the Australian Red Cross, John Powell, hopes the Red Cross Herald Sun Murray Marathon will raise $200,000 in 2004, through competitor contribution, the Murray Marathon Raffle where the prize is a car, and corporate sponsorship.

"The funds raised from this event are crucial to providing services for the most vulnerable in our community. The Red Cross would not be able to provide essential services such as disaster support and emergency response without the funds raised through this event," he said.

Additional photographs, interviews and stories on local paddlers available on request.

-END-

For more details contact:
Lisa Seddon
Mobile: 0410410685