Father, son prepare for big rowing race

After coming in second at the Emmarentia Dam’s 10km High Altitude Surf Ski Race, Ekurhuleni Kayak Club (ERK) father and son team, Val and James Kupferberg, is already training for the Dusi Canoe Marathon in KwaZulu-Natal from February 16 to 18.

Val said he recruited his son to paddle with him three years ago and ever since they have enjoyed rowing together.

“I enjoy training and going to rowing competitions with my son because we get to bond. The rowing competition we went to at Emmarentia Dam was good because we got a chance to test teamwork and strength after we had several training sessions together. Now we are preparing for the competition in KZN.

“I hardly see my son because most of the time he is at school or practising karate, but I’m glad he agreed to row with me because we get a chance to do things together.

“The canoe race we are training for is going to take place for three days. The race is going to start in Pietermaritzburg to Blue Lagoon in Durban. We will paddle past the uMsundusi and UMngeni rivers.

“Paddling is an adventure for me because I get to meet a lot of people and make friends along the way. However, it is such a privilege for me to paddle with my son because not everyone gets to do so. I love rowing and look up to my teammate, Mike Stewart. He is disciplined and a good paddler. He motivates me a lot,” said Val.

James explained he was inspired by his father to row.

“It didn’t take me a long time to fall in love with rowing. I’m looking forward to the Dusi. I get to exercise during my paddling sessions and it feels good. I would like to pursue rowing in the future. I’m enjoying it now more than anything because I’m doing it with my dad.

“I attend Woodlands International College and do martial arts there, but also enjoy rowing,” said James.

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