Gauteng Paddlers conquer Liebensbergvlei River in thrilling two-day race

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Liebensbergvlei River in the Free State, paddlers from the Gauteng region had the chance to partake in an exhilarating annual river race from September 16 to 17.

According to the Gauteng Canoe Union media spokesperson, Jennie Dallas, the two-day race unfolded along a challenging 30km stretch of river, meandering between Reitz and Tweeling.

This offered paddlers heart-pounding experiences filled with exciting corners, white water, bumpy wave trains, and a series of weirs and steep downhill rapids.

Originating from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, this river flows through a tunnel into the Ash River in Clarens, continuing through Bethlehem, and passing by Reitz, Tweeling, and Frankfort before merging with the Vaal River.

“Among the determined paddlers who joined the event were the seasoned athletes Colin Ledwaba and Peter Chissano, from the south of Johannesburg. They joined forces with Germiston Lake coach Richard Cele, to form a formidable K3 (3-man kayak) team.

Over the two days, these paddlers displayed exceptional prowess, emerging as the first K3 to cross the finish line on both days. Their combined time of 4:24 showcased their consistency, with a remarkable split of 2:09 on Day 1 and 2:14 on Day 2.

“As they glided past the picturesque maze fields and soaked up the warm Free State sunshine, the water temperature remained chillingly cold. However, the action and excitement of the race took the paddlers’ minds off the frigid water, proving that the faster and harder one works, the warmer they become,” said Dallas.