THE Dusi Canoe Marathon has a storied history in paddling and it has been a seminal event for Northdene resident Terry Galloway.

This year Galloway aims to complete his 36th Dusi and his fifth with his partner Leigh-Anne Fisher.

Galloway will use his wisdom and nous to get through the rapids on the way down to the finish line at Blue Lagoon on a course he knows all too well.

“At this point, I think the river has my name on a parking bay,” he joked.

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He reflected on what keeps drawing him back, the lessons learned, and the unique partnership that has shaped many of his most memorable Dusi Canoe Marathons.

“For most paddlers, completing the Dusi Canoe Marathon once is a lifetime achievement, so this shows how much this event means to me. I keep coming back because the Dusi has a way of grounding you, it strips life down to the basics: water, heat, grit, and gratitude. Every year the valley teaches me something new, and after three decades, I’m still learning. It’s become part of who I am,” he said.

Meanwhile Fisher gave some insight into participating in the races prior to the Dusi which tackle some of the route of the iconic marathon.

“Any races which you do before Dusi definitely help; it boosts confidence and fitness. It’s a refresher of what to expect and more than anything it’s in beautiful surroundings with so much wildlife. Although the river changes all the time, doing the races you have a better understanding of what to expect, it settles the nerves,” she said.

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This year the duo are being seconded by Galloway’s father, son and sister who is flying from Gqeberha to join the adventure.

Having loved ones in the boat and on the banks means more than most people realise, explained Fisher.

“The best feeling is seeing that familiar face in a crowd, it gives you a mental boost and reason to push through. If you are having a difficult moment you see their face and it carries you. You see the look that says you can do it – and it’s a reminder that you can,” she said. “Having Terry alongside me is also a massive boost. He is so patient and so capable. He makes the journey fun and has a great sense of humour. I think you need that doing a Dusi as a couple. He has seen me at my worst and picks me up when I need it. I love the time together,” she said.

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