SKIATHON ON SUNDAY

Taupo Times, Volume 20, Issue 5, 21 January 1971, Page 10

SKIATHON ON SUNDAY

This is the course for the 10th annual water skiathon on Lake Taupo starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday. A Le Mans type start is pfoposed on the lakefront between Rifle Range and Taharepa roads and the distance to be covered is approximately 36 miles The towing boats must be over 14 ft in length and they will have to handle two skiers who must ski as a pair for the full course. Np passengers are allowed on the boats and an observer must accompany the driver The open class for unlimited speed carries a first prize of $80 with $40 for second. The restricted class, which requires an average speed of 32 m.p.h. or less with a minimum time set for the course on the day, is worth $40 for first, $20 for second and $20 for the first local team. Special prizes and trophies are: Rewa Lynn Trophy, first team home; Lees Marine Trophy, first team restricted class; Johnstone and Leatham Trophy, plus $20, first women's team. A majority of skiers will use one ski during what is a considerable feat of endurance; and boat drivers must be skilful to keep both skiers on the water and, in the event of a spill, to pick one up on the move or perhaps both from a deep water start. The reporting time for entrants is 8 a.m. at Two Mile Bay.