Taming the mighty Dusi
Andy Birkett and Salt Rock paddling legend Hank McGregor claimed the men's FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon crowns.
A spectacular three days of paddling culminated in a dramatic final stage race unfolding with pre-race favourites Andy Birkett and Salt Rock paddling legend Hank McGregor claiming the men’s FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon crowns at Blue Lagoon on Saturday.
The outcome of the final day’s racing was far from certain with the men’s race a tussle between four boats grouped together at the start.
The four continued to jostle for position until McGregor and Birkett, as well as Sbonelo Khwela and Siseko Ntondini, managed to open up a slight gap before the Burma Road portage take out.
A strategy error by Khwela and Ntondini gave Birkett and McGregor the advantage, one they took full advantage of, claiming an eighth title for Birkett and a third for McGregor.
“To do it in front of my family and my boy and to see my dad, my mom and my wife along the way – I’m really stoked,” said McGregor.
But McGregor was not the only local to take on the famously challenging race.
Twenty-two Dolphin Coast Paddlers (DCP) club members took part, of which four were novices taking on the race for the first time.
Grant van der Walt was the fastest Dolphin across the line, paddling with Lee Furby and finishing in 37th position overall with a time of 9h50m28s.
“Our club has had steady growth over the past two years as Ballito continues to grow, we are getting more and more inquiries from people looking to join our club,” said the DCP’s Calvin Harris.
Harris said it was the adventure of the Dusi that he loved most.
“It is not like other major one day races in our country, it is literally a three day adventure through some of the most scenic parts of our province. Whether you are racing for a podium finish or simply taking on the challenge of overcoming what the river throws at you, there is something for everyone in this remarkable race. Long may it continue!”
If you are keen to join the DCP, send an email to calvin@happ.co.za.
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