Young Kyalami canoeist gets SA team call-up after victory at Gauteng Canoe Union Sprint Championships
It was not only the first experience for Sam Johnson racing in Gauteng but also an extraordinarily successful one, as he clinched first place in both the 200m and 500m sprint, and the 2km race.
Kyalami’s young canoeist, Sam Johnson, recently participated in his first provincial race, marking an exciting milestone in his athletic journey.
The Gauteng Canoe Union Sprint Championship, held on February 1 at the Victoria Lake Club at Germiston Lake, featured numerous talented paddlers from the region.
As an U10 paddler in Grade 3 at St David’s Marist Inanda in Sandton, Sam is part of a thriving canoeing programme that supports athletes from U8 to U18. This programme has celebrated many international victories, showcasing its commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the sport.
Also read: Watch: Fire destroys container classrooms at Dr Mathole Motshekga Primary
At the sprint championship, Sam made a strong impression by winning first place in both the 200m and 500m sprint events, as well as achieving a remarkable victory in the 2km race.
His success in competition has earned him a qualification for the international SA team set to participate in the World Sprint Championship scheduled at Roodeplaat Dam from April 4–6.
Also read: City Power secures 10-year sentence for two accused of infrastructure tampering in Midrand
Jennie Dallas, PR and media liaison for Gauteng Canoe Union, said sprint canoeing holds a prestigious status in the sport. “Sprints is recognised as the Olympic discipline, and several paddlers can qualify for selection to represent the country in their respective age groups at the Olympic Games in due course,” said Dallas.
Read more: Johannesburg Property Company donates desktops and laptops to Midrand and Soweto schools
Throughout the year, races are organised at scenic lakes and dams in Gauteng, allowing paddlers to showcase their skills. Events are held at respected venues such as the Centurion Canoe Club, Dabulamanzi Canoe Club at Emmarentia Dam, Florida Lake Canoe Club, and Victoria Lake Canoe Club, as well as the Johannesburg Canoe Club at Wemmer Pan and the East Rand Kayak Club in Benoni.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
