Great adventure lies in spruit

Wayne Taylor from Krugersdorp has just returned after successfully completing in the infamous Berg River Canoe Marathon.

Taylor was one of the founding members of the West Rand Crocodile River Dogs canoe club. Partnering with Glen Tippett in the second Master age category, the pair finished the 18km race in 26th position overall in a time of one hour 30 minutes.

Having recently lost his beloved wife Mandy who suffered from diabetes and a heart condition, the family firmly believes that she is enjoying their experiences and chuckling with glee at their enjoyment of life while shouting encouragement – her enthusiastic support and love of life are sorely missed by the entire canoeing community. Every race and every happy moment are counted as a tribute to her.

Recently, nearly 20 members of Florida Lake Canoe Club, including Wayne, drove down the N17 and chuckled at the sight of the Trichard Spruit as they drove over it; only to be gasping in awe after rounding the first fast bend in canoes, and tumbling boat nose first into serious rapids, bends, turbulent water and much excitement.

When there is a water release from one dam to another, the ankle-deep, sleepy spruit becomes a raging torrent of turbulent water that crashes into river banks to make sharp tight corners and U-turns and tumbles over rocky ledges like mini waterfalls. The 10km busy stretch becomes fast and furious. Gauteng paddlers stream to the sleepy town to test their skills and get their adrenalin pumping as they improve their ability and experience on this demanding section of the river.

Numerous novices also participated in the race to gain more advanced experience. While most finished comfortably and enjoyably, ready for this next step in their learning curve, a few boats were forced to withdraw because mistakes were made and boats were damaged.