TWEED Coast Outriggers have hit on a novel idea with which to introduce their sport to the people of the Tweed and lower Gold Coast - organising a corporate day at Coolangatta's Jack Evans Boat Harbour on Saturday, November 26.

It costs just $100 to enter a four-person team and all participants need to do is bring along their enthusiasm as TCO will provide the rest - outrigger and paddles plus a steerer and an experienced paddler per boat.

A mini regatta will be held inside Jack Evans Boat Harbour where contestants will race over short distances to give competitors an inkling of what outrigger racing is all about.

An outrigger is a single-hulled canoe-shaped vessel which is balanced by an alma (float) that is attached to the outrigger by two spars.

The alma gives the craft excellent balance, which, if the paddlers are fit and on their game, enables it to flash over the water at fantastic speeds.

Because of the alma, outriggers are at equally home in both still and rough water.

If you and your workmates, colleagues or friends wish to participate in the corporate day, contact Sue Gale on 0405 529 279.

Outrigger canoeing offers participants the opportunity to enjoy an aquatic environment while performing in a team-orientated sport. It is both physically and mentally challenging, and requires dedication to personal and team goals.

Outrigger racing originated in Hawaii and came to this country in 1976 and to the Tweed just seven years ago when Tweed Coast Outriggers was formed.

TCO has become an integral and positive part of the local community. Now in its eighth season of competition, the club races in regattas between Hamilton Island and Sydney as well a having paddlers compete internationally at Molokai and Kona in Hawaii, New Zealand and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands.

The club has hosted South Queensland Zone Regattas, has established a junior program and supported many folk wanting to improve their fitness through sport and fun.