The Tuatara Waka Ama Club in Whakatāne set their sights on running a sports challenge that incorporated six different sections. Yesterday, the first Ōhope Beach Ironman Challenge was held with the hope of making this event a must for competitors around the country.
It's a combination of activities to test one's limits. For many of the competitors the Ōhope Beach Ironman Challenge, the main attraction was the outrigger canoe paddling race which took crews around Whale Island.
Organisers want this event to be mandatory on NZ race calenders.
Hosted by the Tuatara Waka Ama Club, the aim in running the event is to breed new talent in the Bay of Plenty.