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Because Paddling is Cheaper than Therapy: Mako Marathon #22

42 kms paddled on Jervis Bay: Mako making history 
We’re back from Mako Marathon - not sorry that we went; 
we went to seek some sandy patch whereon to pitch our tent.

These were not the tranquil scenes of which most poets boast; 
but storms and swells and rainclouds dark, and lightning up the coast. 

We paddled hard on Jervis Bay, right where the eagle flies;
with chafing burning hurting limbs, and raindrop reddened eyes. 

Wishing hard for sunshine and respite upon the sand;
there were only storm clouds stretching endlessly across the land.

No other club would rally, or perform through such a hell;
yet Mako are steely bunch, and rise to challenge well. 

While others were all tucked up, in their doonas safe in town;
Mako smashed a marathon, and set the record down.

Our goal was paddling 42, on a salty, rolling swell;
and we did it without question and we did it bloody well.
Mako Marathon 22: Leg 1 departing from Woollamia.

History was made on Jervis Bay last weekend when the inaugural Mako Marathon took to the water. Amongst darkening clouds, rolling swells and ominous sounds of thunder, organisers and spectators were warning against attempting the impossible. Were Mako up to the challenge of paddling 42kms on the unpredictable Bay?  As we have seen on numerous occasions, Mako love a challenge and the #makomojo was definitely up for an adventure.

Huddled in the protection of the beach, few knew how dangerous the swells were just a few hundred metres out

With 2 crews, able sweeps, a safety boat and some familiar faces helping out, Mako smashed their goal and made memories for a lifetime.

There are many stories to be told: nearly losing Ernie down the Plantation Point toilets, the danger of Kiwi drowning in his yak-fur jacket, the strains of the sirens’ calling from Berry St balcony, Crew 1 lifting for tabata sets during an endurance challenge (wtf?), Crew 2 not able to sit in right seats and nose-ploughing and bailing endlessly for 1 hour, endless bad dad jokes and groans, super strokes, and the universal agreement that no-one likes vegetarian sausages.

Sunday 22nd May was a very special day indeed. A day of days. A day where the true spirit, heart and team spirit of our club once again rose against odds to do something extraordinary. Mako Marathon is here to stay. In fact plans are already afoot for future adventures…. Watch this space.