And, for good reason too.

Father-daughter combination Mick and Talei Wilson, along with Dave Thompson and son Sam, will represent the Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Club at the organisation’s first major event on “home turf”.

Up to 200 paddlers from throughout New South Wales are expected to converge on the area for the State OC1 and OC2 Championships.

Wilson, a national bronze medallist, and Thompson are lining up in the 18km long course race tomorrow, while younger family members Talei and Sam, both 14, take their places in the junior OC1 division over 6km.

“I think everyone’s thrilled about this weekend,” Wilson said.

“Dave’s definitely a medal chance in the senior masters, he’s paddling well.

“As for my prospects, the strong winds will be a big assistance.

“With the weather conditions the way they are at the moment, there is a distinct possibility we’ll start the blue ribbon ‘downhill’ at Plomer and finish in Port Macquarie.”

Wilson, who doubles as Maroro’s coach, admitted there was a buzz throughout the club on the eve of the event.

“We have huge numbers contesting the singles,” he said.

“And, it’s great to see the kids competing as well.

“Tomorrow, we’ll boast possibly six paddlers in the long course race alone.

“A few years ago, I was the only one on the water.

“Overall, it’s a massive achievement for the club to host the regatta.

“The State Titles will highlight what outrigging actually is – a worthwhile alternative to high-energy sports.”

Wayne Barnard and Lauren Grant, who recently won the open women’s OC1 division at the recent Super Downhill Series race 4 from Palm Beach to Long Reef Beach, are also strong medal contenders for the local outfit.

Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Club president Garth Norris said the regatta represented an important milestone in the organisation’s relatively short history.

“Having started just over five years ago with a handful of members and a couple of borrowed canoes, it’s a great feat for our club to be hosting this regatta,” he explained.

“I hope it proves a special occasion for all our members, particularly those founding members who have been here from the start.”