Despite some competitors being unable to complete the Oamaru race of the New Zealand Boat Marathon Commission race series, the event was still a success, the race convener says.
The North Otago Yacht and Power Boat Club spokesman and convener Gary Story said seven people pulled out during Saturday's 100km race.
He said the boats were constructed to be as light as possible so he was not overly surprised at the number which did not complete the course, given the swells they were competing in.
''That's a high number.
''Most of it's due to the conditions and people not wanting to break their boats, knowing they've got two more races to go.''
One crew pulled out as they were seasick and another driver had to find a new crewmate after his original one pulled out after seeing the conditions they would have to race in.
Mr Story had no idea about spectator numbers, but Holmes Wharf was packed with cars and people watching the race.
''There were good crowds right along the foreshore.''
The main highlight, other than rewarding the crewmate who refused to go in the race at the last minute with a trophy called the bath plug prize, was having no injuries reported, Mr Story said.
''As the convener that's all you can hope for.
''I don't have a beer until the last boat is in the harbour.''
The winning drivers and boats of each class were. -
A Class, Mark Taiatini and Yamaha; A Class tunnel, Ryan Archer and Secret Agent; B Class, Ben Weild and Haulin; C Class, Nigel Smethurst and LJ Hooker; D Class, John Buckland and Dreamweaver; E Class, John Weild and Fast & Furious.
The next race will be at Lake Waihola on July 22.
The series will conclude on Invercargill's Oreti Estuary, on August 5.
