Ntontini lifts croc canoe trophy
The TRAC Lowveld Croc Canoe Marathon took place over the Heritage Day long weekend attracting paddlers from Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal to race on one of the best rivers in South Africa.
The two-day race coincides with increased water released from Kwena Dam for the farmers in Malalane and Komatipoort, resulting in a fast-flowing, action-packed course through tight turns, overhanging trees and spectacular rapids over the 33-kilometre stretch of pristine river.
A mixture of seasoned veterans and novices made up the field, with those having had the experience of paddling the river in previous years dominating the podium.
The 2015 winner, Siseko Ntontini, dominated a very hot day and won with a substantial lead followed by Phineas Zulu and Simnikiwe Ntondini. The second day saw Ntondini chase hard to post the fastest time, but missed out on second place by mere seconds.
Ntontini held onto his lead comfortably to lift the prestigious 55-year-old trophy in a combined time of 4:08,53. Ntondini finished as the first u/23 paddler.
The Lowveld Croc is technical, tough race and as customary most paddlers came away with a “croc tattoo” from altercations with branches and rocks to show for their efforts and some only finished with their boat duct taped together to prevent it from splitting.
The Gundu award, named after Mike Hay, went to Ewald Thole from KZN in a time of 5:06,44 with the first Lowvelder being Stuart Butcher in 4:45,35 (also first sub master).
