Murray River Marathon under new management from 2016

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Murray River Marathon under new management from 2016

July 31, 2015

The historic Murray River Marathon will be jointly managed by Sydney Harbour Kayaks and Mirage Sea Kayaks from 2016.

YMCA Victoria will pass on the baton to the kayaking businesses at the conclusion of this year’s event, which runs from 25th to 29th November.

Shannon O’Brien, Managing Director of both Mirage and Sydney Harbour Kayaks, sees the change as presenting an exciting opportunity for staff of the two businesses and for Australian paddlers, stating “like so many from across Australia, we have grown to love the iconic Murray Marathon and are thrilled we can now help enhance the event in connecting people, river and country.

"There is a huge community passion for the event and we believe Mirage and Sydney Harbour Kayaks are the strongest custodians to lead the Murray Marathon through its next phase."

The 404 kilometre, five-day event has gained a place in the minds of Australian kayakers of all abilities, as a real test of teamwork, endurance and heart.

Tony Lovett, an organiser of the combined Koori youth and Victorian Police 'Blues & Brothers' team explains “the Murray provides an opportunity for people to overcome challenges whilst forming lifelong bonds.

”There is a cultural connection between the river, the people and the land."

Not only is the Murray Marathon one of the highlights of the Australian paddle sports calendar; at its core, the Murray is a fundraising mechanism to assist local community-driven programs.

Paddlers from all different walks of life band together to form teams for the Murray, whether they be from surf clubs, schools, social clubs, mentoring programs, kayaking clubs, or corporate groups. As long as the members of these teams and the individual paddlers contribute to their own local community in a meaningful and fulfilling way, then the Murray Marathon has achieved its mission.

Speaking about the new management of the Murray, YMCA Regional Development Manager Leon Newton adds “we are impressed by the commitment of Mirage and Sydney Harbour Kayaks to grow the event and are confident it will continue for many years to come.”

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