Durban is living up to its ‘home of surfski’ reputation as the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships, starting today, draws 515 entrants.

According to Northglen News, the total includes both local and international paddlers. The race starts at the Durban Undersea Club and will take place within the three-day window from today to Sunday.

Race schedule and conditions

Due to predicted weather, wind and wave conditions, the event committee confirmed the mixed doubles (SS2) race will take place tomorrow, with the singles (SS1) race set for Sunday.

Under the supervision of race director and local resident Colin Simpkins, the organising committee includes several North Durban residents, among them Wally Bodin of Sunningdale and Neels Meyer of Durban North.

Local organisers competing too

While managing their respective portfolios of transport, logistics, accommodation and harbour liaison, both Bodin and Meyer will also compete in the championships.

“I’m certainly not a contender but I will be competing in the SS1 and SS2 categories in the masters division. What we as an organising committee are most pleased about is that number of entries. It is just what we wanted as this is the first time Durban has ever hosted the world champs,” Bodin explains.

“The response from the overseas community in particular has been pleasing. What makes this world champs unique is the start is staying the same, at DUC, whichever direction we have to go. We boast a wealth of paddling talents in KZN which only bodes well for the competition.”

Focus on safety and logistics

Meyer, who serves as harbour liaison, is one of eight organisers involved in the logistical set-up of the championships.

“I work in the logistics industry which is why one of my portfolios is harbour liaison. If the race does go south, paddlers will have to cross the harbour mouth. Durban Harbour is a working harbour so there is a strict protocol to follow. There will also be 12 safety boats along the route from DUC to help guide and protect the paddlers in the race. Safety is paramount and something we are taking very seriously. Logistically everyone has worked extremely hard behind the scenes to ensure the champs are a success. The support we’ve received from the City, fellow paddlers and DUC has been monumental and we are looking forward to the champs,” Meyer said.