Five guys from Aberglasslyn and Rutherford have returned from a recent trip to Rockhampton with third place in a barefoot waterskiing endurance event.
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The Fitzroy 50 involves teams of four skiing their way across a long distance course with nothing between their feet and the water.
Reaching speeds of more than 65km/h, Nathan Dark, Chris McLean, Michael Rooth and Chris Caplick took turns completing what turned out to be about 70km around the course.
It was the first time the men had competed in the sport, and they came out with a few bruised feet and some sore necks after their one hour and 40 minute effort.
“It was on Sunday, and we’re still hobbling around today,” Dark said on Wednesday.
“You’re in a lot of pain, but you just go for as long as you possibly can.”
Being the rookies, Dark said the team left with their heads held high despite a few jeers following the recent State of Origin result.
“We just went for the fun of it,” Dark said.
The team received great support from the local community, with 10 sponsors assisting them in their efforts.
The men even plan to donate a large portion of their sponsorship money to Stockton-based charity Harry’s House, and named their team Harry’s Henchmen.
A few of the team members also competed in a figure eight event, with Dark finishing third in the opens, and driver Ty Cameron snatching third in the Weekend Warriors division.
The team has been invited to compete in the Fitzroy 50 again next year.