Tawera Rum Barrel Challenge 2021

​The Tawera Rum Barrel Challenge is a much-loved feature of the regatta. Each year, yachts' crew swap their sails for oars, jump into skiffs and battle it out for the top prize; a 20 litre barrel of Mount Gay Rum. 

This year's race was no different. Catalina's team started strong in the first heat - before an in-boat tumble took a toll. Aschanti IV overcame questionable technique to be the first to return to the beach, though forgetting to run to to the barrel nearly cost them the race. Limited skill and plenty of enthusiasm made for an exciting tournament. Go Hard lost an oar in the finals, losing a likely lead, while Tawera's Foul Play powered ahead to take out the competition. 

The chicken-costumed crew celebrated in style - with the 20 litre barrel of Mount Gay Rum shared among competing crews via an ice luge overlooking a Bay of Islands sunset. Thanks to Mike and Tracey Mahoney for the generous use of their skiffs for this ever-popular competition.