After the runaway success of the first event, the Z Manu World Champs are back with more qualifying events, more host cities and increased prize money. Last year it created a huge amount of national and international noise, capturing hearts and minds.
Scott Rice credits a solid team of supporting sponsors with the event’s success and ability to return for the second year, particularly Z Energy who return as naming rights sponsor. Supported by Water Safety New Zealand and Sport New Zealand, the event encourages safe, high-spirited competition and welcomes all New Zealanders to experience the Manu’s splash-filled spectacle. Other sponsors include Auckland Unlimited, Original Kiwi Dip, Frank Energy, Tip Top, Bluebird, Snickers, Burger King, Bumper, NZME and Lumo.
An experienced event organiser, former elite swimmer and founder of NZ Ocean Swim Series, Rice is an advocate for the power of partnership to elevate events.
“Last year was the biggest Manu comp New Zealand had ever seen, and this year, thanks to our sponsors, in particular naming rights sponsor Z Energy, it is even bigger.
“The first event captured the imagination and spirit of New Zealand, with more than 2,000 participants taking part across the country and spectators lining the waterfront to witness the Grand Final at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. Legends were made, champions crowned, and a sense of community shared. The event truly encapsulated the Kiwi Summer,” he says.
This year the event has expanded to eight cities (four new) and 10 qualifiers, including a new – category, the Freestyle which will invite practitioners to demonstrate any bomb technique other than the Manu. The Manu itself is defined as a bomb technique where the body forms a clear V-shape, with the bum hitting the water first.
The prize pool for finalists has increased to $ 40,000 in cash and prizes. Registrations officially open on 1 November, with the first qualifier taking place in Tauranga on Saturday, 7 December.
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