Dabs Dam Buster 2023 was recently hosted at Dabulamanzi Canoe Club.
One of the event’s organisers, Herkie Sandenbergh, said this social race, which is held once a year to get paddlers ready for Dusi, also has the aim to get junior paddlers and especially girls, involved in the sport.
On the day they had three different races; red, pink, yellow and green (U12) races which each had specific kilometres to paddle and/or a run. Paddlers who also took part in the races on the day were those from Soweto Canoe and Recreational Club which is their sister club.
Money raised from the event went towards the prize money, which was shared among the junior paddlers, as well as towards costs for the club. The club puts emphasis on children and girl paddlers, “We think it is harder for these groups to participate and this is a way of encouraging them,” said Sandenbergh.
Sandenbergh hoped such days would broaden community participation in the sport, “We think it is a really good event where a lot of people can compete,” he said. A paddler himself, being a volunteer at this club is important to him as he considers this Emmarentia-based club, one the best places in the community.
“I do believe you should be part of community activities so this is the one thing I do in the year where I help,” said Sandenbergh.
He encouraged fellow community members to come out and paddle and be part of them. Adding that those who may fear the concept of getting into a kayak needn’t fear as there are development programmes and other training opportunities at the club.
“If you are keen on getting fit and doing sport in the outdoors, this is something for you that is conveniently placed,” said Sandenbergh.
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