The Clarence 100, a challenging 106km marathon river paddle, is set to take place from October 11-13, 2024, in Grafton, NSW, Australia. This three-day event has become a significant fixture in the Australian paddling calendar, attracting both experienced athletes and enthusiastic amateurs.
Event Overview
- Dates: October 11-13, 2024
- Location: Grafton, NSW, Australia
- Total Distance: 106km
- Registration Opens: July 4, 2024
The race is divided into three stages, each presenting unique challenges along the Clarence River:
- Day 1 (October 11): Copmanhurst to Grafton (40km)
- Day 2 (October 12): Grafton to Maclean (40km)
- Day 3 (October 13): Maclean to Yamba (26km)
Participants will navigate through various historical townships, including Copmanhurst, Grafton, Ulmarra, Brushgrove, Maclean, and Yamba, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Northern East NSW.
Participation Options
The Clarence 100 offers several entry pathways to accommodate different skill levels and preferences:
- Full Distance Individual: Participants paddle all three stages solo.
- Individual Stages: Entrants can choose any single stage or combination.
- Two-Person Team (Dynamic Duo): Partners complete the full distance together.
- Relay Team: A six-leg relay option for groups.
Categories and Divisions
The event welcomes a variety of paddle craft designed for speed over long distances:
- Ocean Ski (Single/Double)
- Spec Ski (Single/Double)
- Kayaks (K1, K2, T Kayak)
- SUP (14ft and unlimited)
- Prone (Stock and Unlimited)
- Canoe (Single/Double)
- Outrigger (Single/Double/Multi-Person)
Divisions are available for:
- Juniors (18 and under)
- Open Age
- Age Categories: 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
Registration and Fees
Early bird registration opens on July 4, 2024, with discounts available until August 31, 2024.
- Adult Full Event (Solo/Team/Relay): $180 ($150 early bird)
- Junior Entrants (18 and under): $120 ($120 early bird)
- Single Stage Options: From $50 for adults, $40 for juniors
Participants receive event merchandise, with full-distance entrants getting both a hat and singlet.
Event Schedule
Thursday, October 10, 2024
- Event Sign-On and Briefing: 5PM-7PM at The Crown Hotel, Grafton
Friday, October 11, 2024 (Day 1)
- Location: Copmanhurst Boat Ramp
- Marshalling: From 6AM
- Start Time: 7AM sharp
- Finish: Grafton Rowing Sheds
Saturday, October 12, 2024 (Day 2)
- Location: Grafton Rowing Sheds
- Marshalling: From 6AM
- Start Time: 7AM sharp
- Finish: Maclean Boat Ramp and Jetty
Sunday, October 13, 2024 (Day 3)
- Location: Maclean Boat Ramp and Jetty
- Marshalling: From 6:30AM
- Start Time: 7:30AM sharp
- Finish: Whiting Beach, Yamba
- Presentation: Yamba Golf Club from 1PM-5PM
Safety and Requirements
Safety is a primary concern for the Clarence 100 organizers:
- PFDs are mandatory for all sit-on or sit-in craft.
- SUP and Prone paddlers must use leg leashes.
- Aquatic foot protection is strongly advised.
- Participants should be physically prepared for challenging conditions.
The organizers emphasize, “Never Underestimate the Clarence.” Conditions can vary significantly over the three days, and paddlers must be prepared for unexpected challenges.
Logistics and Support
- Daily sign-on is required at least 30 minutes before each stage start.
- Vehicle access points are available for relay team changeovers.
- Basic sustenance, including Gatorade, water, and fresh fruit, is provided at stage finishes.
- A potential bus service for returns to stage start points may be available, subject to demand.
Cultural Significance
The Clarence 100 acknowledges and pays respect to the traditional landowners of the area, including the Bundjalung, Yaegl, and Gumbaynggiir nations. The event has been given a traditional welcome onto the river, known in traditional cultural language as “Breimba”.
Additional Information
- Wash Riding: Participants are expected to avoid wash riding vessels that are significantly faster for extended periods, as this could create an unfair advantage.
- Craft Changes: Paddlers can change craft types between stages, but this will reclassify them to social status rather than competitive.
- Cut-off Times: While there are no strict cut-off times, paddlers must maintain a certain pace to be past the 20km mark of days 1 and 2 within 3 hours.
- Parking: Parking is available at each location close to entry and exit points, though some areas may have time restrictions.
- Insurance: The event does not provide individual participant insurance. Paddlers are advised to seek their own insurance coverage if desired.
- Camping: Free camping is available at the event start point in Copmanhurst, which is a council-managed campground suitable for vans or tents.
The Clarence 100 is designed to challenge paddlers of all levels while showcasing the beauty of the Clarence River and Valley. Participants are reminded that this is not a leisurely paddle, but a serious endurance event requiring proper preparation and respect for the river conditions.
For those interested in participating or learning more about the Clarence 100, detailed information and registration can be found on the official website:.
As the event continues to grow in popularity, early registration is recommended to secure a spot and take advantage of early bird discounts.
Cancellation Policy
The event may be cancelled before or during the scheduled dates due to health orders, unsafe weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances that could compromise participant safety. If cancellation occurs prior to the start date, 50% of entry fees will be refunded. No refunds will be given for cancellations after the event start.