A BENDIGO team was first across the line on the first day of the Murray Marathon.
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Team leader Tony Misson said the group paddled 96 kilometres from Yarrawonga to Tocumwal in about six and a half hours.
"It was a really fantastic day," he said.
"We are all exhausted but very impressed."
Mr Misson said the team battled shallow waters, hot temperatures and fierce competition to paddle across the line first.
He said the team got the double ocean racing ski up to speeds of 19.3 kilometres an hour.
"It was a really good start," he said.
"The next few days are going to be tough."
The second stage of the Murray Marathon has been cancelled due to extreme weather conditions.
Teams were scheduled to paddle from Picnic Point to Echuca today but because of high temperatures the course has been cancelled.
Organisers believe the remainder of the event will go ahead as planned.