World-first technology to find the best ‘Manu’ jumper in New Zealand

Special “Manu tech” software has been developed to help find the finest proponents of the art of “bombing”.

The Manu or bomb, well-known to most swimming enthusiasts around New Zealand, is a unique style of diving, which aims to create the largest splash possible.

Next year, the Z Manu World Champs will see hundreds from around the country compete for the right to make the grand final at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, to showcase their most powerful, splashiest bombs.

And to ensure fairness for all involved, Scott Rice told Ma’a Brian Sagala on 531pi’s Pacific Days that great effort has gone into creating software that accurately measures the best jumps.

“There’s been plenty of people who run bombing contests in the past, and still do now. I’ve spoken to a number of them to get an idea what we’re judging on,” he says.

“We’ve partnered with the professor of biomechanics Patria Hugh at AUT, to create a software called Manu-tech which will measure on screen the splash, height and volume which is kinda cool!”

Watch the full interview below:

Given this is the first official competition, organisers expect many competitors will be looking to take out the inaugural title.

“There are five qualification events, so if you want to get amongst it you need to register. They’re in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch.

“We kick off with the Wellington qualifier on the Wellington waterfront, then we move to Hamilton at Waterworld, then to Christchurch at Jelly park, and then to Auckland where we’re building a huge tower at the Viaduct.

“From there we take the best 70 from those qualifiers to the grand final on the 9th of March.”

There is $30,000 in prizes for the competition, which Price says includes $12,000 in cash and the competition will separate into adult, student and children divisions.

He adds that Z Energy, as their event partner, will help competitors get to Auckland.

“We’ve got Z Energy who’s funded us a whole lot of fuel vouchers to help people get to the final. It’s a pretty attractive prize pool but I think the kudos of taking out the first Manu championship is a huge draw.”

“It’s a fantastic event celebrating the art of the Manu.”