Gold Coast Legend Andy Kelckhoven Wins!
Story by Andy Kancachian
In the heart of Renmark, South Australia, where the Mighty River Murray gracefully winds its way through the landscape, there exists a community united by a common passion—the Riverland Dinghy Club. For the past four decades, this close-knit group of adrenaline seekers has been hosting what many consider the greatest Aussie boat race—the Riverland Dinghy Derby.
Established in 1981, the derby is a unique flatwater race that spans over 100 kilometres, utilising open river sections and a network of creeks. The prestigious Dinghy Derby championship, highlight of the racing calendar, attracts teams from far and wide, all vying for the glory of becoming one of the courageous few to triumph in the gruelling race.
The teams do four laps, 2 short and 2 long, reaching speeds of up to 100km per hour and making this one of the most dangerous on water events in the world. The competitors have to tackle tight corners, submerged obstacles, and the other 100 team boats, all vying for line honours. The 3-metre tinnies are fitted with 30hp engines that are tuned to crank out 60hp, with most teams running workshops out of their backyard sheds.
The championship kicked off with the Dash ‘4’ Cash race at the Renmark waterfront on Friday night, the air charged with excitement held under the glow of lights.
As dawn broke on the main race day, competitors gathered for pre-race scrutineering, ensuring their vessels were ready to navigate the challenging course ahead of them.
Thousands of spectators travel to the region and position themselves along the river, eager to witness the heart-pounding action up close. Safety is paramount, as this is a powerboat race, requiring spectators to maintain a safe distance from the water.
Among the competitors, one man stood out—the resilient and determined Andy Kelckhoven from the Gold Coast. A Surf Life Saving Australia Hall of Fame member for IRB racing and the previous coach of multiple Australian and World Championship winning teams from here on the Gold Coast, Andy has long been drawn to the South Australian tinnie racing scene.
A few years prior, adversity struck Andy when he was hit by a speeding tinnie during a pre-race reconnaissance run, resulting in a broken back. Against all odds, he not only recovered but made a triumphant return to the racing scene. Towing his tinnie 2100 kilometres from Queensland to Renmark, unfortunately Andy arrived to the last race without a teammate who had family commitments, and his wife had recently given birth.
Undeterred, he enlisted a local enthusiast to be his copilot, referred to as a swinger, and they forged ahead into the last race of the competition tied for first place.
Facing the challenge of racing on unfamiliar waters, Andy navigated the course with determination and very limited practice and knowledge of the track. Local competitors, well-acquainted with the twists and turns of the region, had the home advantage. Due to the complexity of the racing courses, Andy was initially told no team from out of town would win. In the early days, Andy faced the daunting task of taking wrong turns and doubling back.
What set Andy apart was his prowess as an engine mechanic. While his competitors flaunted high-end engines fuelled by expensive racing blends, Andy transformed a stock engine into a racing powerhouse that ran on regular service station fuel. This underdog strategy, coupled with his unwavering spirit, led Andy to a historic championship victory, making him the first competitor from outside the Riverland to claim the coveted title.
Andy now has bragging rights. His triumph not only marked a personal achievement but also showcased the toughness and tenacity that define the spirit of the Riverland Dinghy Club. As his boat crossed the finish line, a roar of applause erupted from the spectators, celebrating not just a race won, but a story of hardship overcome and triumph against the odds—a true embodiment of the Aussie spirit.
Andy is the owner of Outboard Parts Australia in Nerang Queensland, who provide second hand outboards, engine maintenance services as well as new and used spare parts for all makes and models of outboard engines.
www.outboardpartsaustralia.com.au
Published in print January-March 2024
