Australian Outrigger Championships at Lake Kawana this weekend

The Australian Outrigger Canoe Racing Association (AOCRA) are excited to host this year’s National Sprint Championships 2023.  This event is set to take place on Friday 17 November  through to Sunday 19 November 2023.  We welcome over 790 competitors from around Australia, competing for a national title and club champion trophy. 

Sunshine Coast Council Economy Portfolio Councillor Jason O'Pray said the sprints were a spectator friendly sport and everyone was welcome to cheer on competitors at Lake Kawana opposite the Sunshine Coast Stadium this weekend.  

President of AOCRA, Micheal Seay said the atmosphere at National Sprints is sensational with live announcing and commentary, fellow outriggers volunteering when not racing and everyone is ‘mates’ till they hit the water and competition is in play.  This year we look forward to announcing our Australian Outrigger Team to represent at the upcoming IVF World Sprint Championships, so I know everyone will bring the A Game in the spirit of healthy competition.” 

This event program features 250, 500, 1,000 and 1,500 metre sprints in V1, V6 and V12 outrigger canoes across three days.  There are 188 races with heat and finals over three days.  With over 790 Outriggers from 38 clubs around Australia our sport is inclusive with our youngest age category, Minnows through to Platinum’s being 70 and over years of age all competing this weekend for a 2023 National Title. 

This years National’s is a qualifier event to represent Australia at the International Va’a Federation World Sprint Championships to be held in Hilo Bay, Hawaii in August 2024.  This involves qualifying for selection and placing for the Elite Championships and securing lanes for Club Championships. 

For more information about the National Sprint Championships 2023, including how to register a team or become a sponsor for 2024, visit our website at www.aocra.com.au  

This event is supported by Sunshine Coast Council through the Major Events Sponsorship Program.