Surf lifesaving: Rivals' absence a gift for Auckland

Auckland's chances of retaining the national title are improving, with three of the country's leading lifesavers unavailable for the Surf League at Mt Maunganui on February 4-5.

Gisborne's surf ironman champion Glenn Anderson, Bay of Plenty Olympic paddler Steve Ferguson and paddleboard specialist Nathan Henderson, members of the New Zealand team going to the World Lifesaving Championships in Melbourne in mid-February have decided to concentrate on that contest.

Their decision could boost the Auckland team's hopes of retaining the league title with another New Zealand team member, Michael Buck, a swim specialist, included in the defenders' team.

Two of the country's fastest ski paddlers, Cameron Pocock and Travis Mitchell, will be even more hopeful without Ferguson in the field, and board specialist Kevin Morrison will have one less to worry about without Henderson.

Two of Auckland's brightest hopes are Australia-based Lauren Roberts and Lucy Pengelly. Both Muriwai lifesavers have been competing for Northcliffe surf lifesaving club in Queensland and recently qualified for the Australian women's ironman surf league series.

Red Beach's all-rounder Chris Moors has forced his way into the Auckland team after a series of outstanding races in the past month.

Moors won the ironman and finished second behind Buck in the surf race at the Owen Chapman event on January 7 at Red Beach and repeated the surf race performance at the Northern Region District Championships at Ruakaka. He finished second in the Northern Region District Champs surf race and third in the ironman, which probably cemented his selection for Auckland.

Auckland has also selected internationally ranked ski and kayak paddler Katie Pocock, who should be unrivalled in her specialist events. She may even surprise many with her athleticism in disciplines other than ski paddling.

The renewed inflatable rescue boat battle between two of the country's top petrolheads will be a feature of the league.

Taranaki's Chris Scott and crewman, Jaron Mumby dominated IRB competition for many seasons, with Auckland's Danny Morrison teaming with Jason Pocock a close second.

Scott and Mumby retired in 2005, but have reunited this season.

Morrison, named as captain of the Auckland team, will link up with Muriwai lifesaver Ashley Matuschka as crewman in a new combination for the future.


Auckland

Danny Morrison (c), Travis Mitchell, Kevin Morrison, Michael Buck, Cameron Pocock, Vaughan Roberts (Mairangi Bay) Ashleigh Matuschka, Lucy Pengelly, Lauren Roberts, Leah Warnoch (Muriwai), Sarah Gempton (Orewa).