Soldiers based on the Border recently paddled more than 300 kilometres along the Murray River to raise funds for a worthy cause.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Army Logistic Training Centre team travelled 316 kilometres and spent close to 30 hours in the boat across five days from Yarrawonga to Swan Hill in November, with proceeds donated to Legacy Australia.
Earlier in the year, participants competed in the 50-kilometre Echuca Mini Marathon from Barmah to Echuca, finishing second.
They trained twice a week for three months prior to the events.
ALSO IN SPORT:
Although most of the Border team were novices, their captain Maj Karen Turner has had 30 years of paddling experience.
The Massive Murray Paddle usually covers a distance of 404 kilometres, but was cut short by extreme weather conditions.
"The river level was low this year and the current was not that strong, making the paddling more difficult than in previous years," Maj Turner said.
"The weather did get quite warm toward the end of the week and day four was cancelled due to the weather conditions.
"We had an early start every day in order to get to the start point by 6.30am.
"The support vehicle followed us along the river and paddlers changed over at the checkpoints.
"At the end of each day, the kayaks and paddling equipment were cleaned and reloaded onto the trailer ready for the next day.
"Teamwork is a major focus for the Army paddlers."
The idea to participate in Massive Murray Paddle started four years ago, and, as part of the event, teams choose a charity they would like to support.
Army Logistic Training Centre this year went with Legacy Australia, who provide services to more than 70,000 widows, 1900 children and dependants with a disability.
"The team was proud of their achievement because they worked hard and they got through together," Maj Turner added.
"When you can hear the noise on the finish line, you really start to get excited and pick up speed.
"A race to the finish always looks good."