Top ocean paddlers to hold clinic

A trio of widely experienced ocean paddlers are set to deliver some timely tips from the top in a unique paddle sports coaching clinic to be held in the picturesque Tutukaka Harbour north east of Whangarei.
Multi-medal winning waka ama paddler Conan Herbert, former world womens surf ski champion Katie Pocock and renowned stand-up (SUP) proponent Shaye Pettit-Smith are all heading to Tutukaka to coach their chosen sports.
Herbert has a wide a varied experience in waka ama including Molokai, Hawaii and racing in W1 and OC6 all over the Pacific region and in Europe.
Pocock is a surf ski paddling legend. A past winner of the famous Molokai Ocean Race and a highly rated coach and competitor currently based in Auckland, Katie is renowned for her paddling technique.
Pettit-Smith is a widely experienced paddler with a background in waka ama and dragon boat, who is now a SUP convert with race experience throughout the Pacific.
The clinic, on Sunday, August 7, is a day-long coaching experience concentrating on technique and drills for the morning session followed by a long coastal paddle for the waka ama, kayak and surf ski paddlers in the afternoon.
It is suitable for both novice and more experienced paddlers.
Herbert and Pocock will ride alongside the paddlers giving advice on downwind and open ocean paddling techniques.
The SUP participants will head to the Ngunguru Bar at the mouth of the Ngunguru River in the afternoon to fine tune their surfing skills under the watchful eye of Pettit-Smith.
Places are limited to the first 25 in each category (25 surf ski/kayak, 25 waka ama, 25 SUP). Registration costs $55 and includes lunch at the Schnappa Rock Restaurant and Bar in Tutukaka.
Register by emailing to: timandbronwyn@yahoo.co.nz