First-time Avon Descent competitor Andrew Maurice.
Camera IconFirst-time Avon Descent competitor Andrew Maurice. Credit: Supplied/Andrew Ritchie

Kayaker races for love of river

Staff ReporterWanneroo Times

‘It’s great just getting on the water at the beginning of each day, and now knowing that we have this great place on our doorstep, and also the Avon which is still close to Perth,’ Mr Maurice (49) said.

The Swan Canoe Club member started kayaking for fitness and the social aspect two years ago.

He said he had been impressed how the sport had also brought him close to the river’s wonders, including close encounters with dolphins and birdlife, and seeing the sun set on twilight paddles.

Mr Maurice will join hundreds of other competitors in the 42nd annual race for paddle and outboard entries along 124km from Northam to Bayswater.

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‘I’m just going to try to finish, as all I’ll be competing against will be myself,’ he said.

He and some friends had a 31km practice paddle from Northam to Toodyay 10 days ago.

‘It was magic up there, but it was challenging,’ he said.