Fast flowing river challenges canoeists
The 52nd edition of the adrenalin-pumping Sasol Lowveld Crocodile Canoe Race, which started at Kwena Dam and finished nearly 31km downriver, on a farm on the way to Mbombela, took place this past Saturday and Sunday.
Development paddler, Siseko Ntondini (Soweto) was declared the winner.
“It is widely hailed as one of the most-challenging and iconic races on the canoeing calendar, with most participants returning year after year to experience the amazing scenery, pristine river and challenging conditions,” said Allison Williams of the Lowveld Canoe Club (LCC).
This highly technical river is rated A+ and therefore it was only open to paddlers who have done at least three A-grade river races. It is narrow, with a downhill trajectory, and fast-flowing water weaving through the rocks requires quick thinking, good reflexes, river-reading ability and fast action – the pinnacle of river racing.
It started with 104 boats and ended on Sunday with only 74. The Lowveld’s top paddler, Mark Smith came second, just a second behind the winner.
Their accumulated finishing times after both days were 03:56:43 and 03:56:44 respectively.
The third-place winner was another u/23 Sowetan making waves and challenging the top brass on the podium – Thando Ngamlana finished in 04:01:00.
Zonele Nzuza (Soweto) came fourth in 04:12:00 and Gustav Smook, a local paddler took the fifth position as well as first submaster in 04:13:00.
Kirsty Fox (ERK) was the first woman to finish and came 44th overall in 05:16:00. The youngest was one of the locals, Dewiko Loots (u/16) in 52nd place in 05:25:00.
“Thanks goes out to the sponsors, Sasol, Trans African Concessions, Canoe Concepts, and Kayak Racing for spot prizes, and to LCC for their hospitality and offering this opportunity on a truly enjoyable river for paddlers who are ready for the next level of racing,” said Jennie Dallas of the Gauteng Canoe Union.
Williams continued by giving thanks to the many LCC members who gave their time to act as marshals, sweeps, clean-up crews, caterers and organisers.
“Particular mention must go to Eric Dixon who spent countless hours planning and preparing for this race.”
