Fishermen rescue rubberduck racers off Tinley Manor coast

A request for help off-shore of Tinley Manor saw a stranded Ballito husband and wife safely returned to shore on Saturday morning after their rubber-duck’s gearbox failed.

National Sea Rescue Institute Ballito duty crew responded to the distress call when the gearbox failed roughly one nautical mile off-shore.

“We don’t know what caused the gearbox to shear from the motor,” said Ballito NSRI station commander, Quentin Power.

“With the casualty craft being adrift at sea, we requested the assistance of a local fishing vessel in the vicinity. The crew of the Sandman diverted to assist the vessel while we made our way,” said Power.

Owing to favorable sea conditions the Sandman’s crew rigged a towline to the vessel and towed it safely to shore.

“With further assistance from the Umhlali Ski-Boat club, their tractor and NSRI duty crew the vessel was safely recovered,” said Power.

Meanwhile, it has since been established that the vessel belongs to locals ‘Reggie’ and Dagmar Roetes – both competitors in the upcoming Rubberduck World Championships to be held between March 21 and 29.

‘Reggie’ said he ought to have his rubberduck repaired in time for the championships and looks forward to working hand-in-hand with his wife Dagmar in an effort to claim the title of world champion.

Ballito NSRI thanked the Sandman’s skipper, Kelly Smith, his crew and the Umhlali Ski-Boat club.

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